Researchers extracted genomes from over 130 skeletons across 35 houses and found signs of a matrilineal structure.
A newly published study in Science suggests that the ancient city of Çatalhöyük in present-day Turkey may have been a matriarchal society over 9,000 years ago.
Researchers extracted genomes from over 130 skeletons across 35 houses and found signs of a matrilineal structure.
“Maternal lineage had a key role in connecting household members,” the study noted, adding that graves were often placed beneath the floors of mudbrick homes. Researchers also discovered that female offspring were more likely to remain in the household, while males appeared to move out after marriage.
Findings showed women were buried with five times more grave goods than men. “We need to move away from our Western bias that assumes all societies are patrilineal,” said Dr. Eline Schotsmans.
This follows a related study in Britain that found evidence of strong maternal ties in pre-Roman Celtic communities, further suggesting that some ancient societies may have favored matrilineal structures.