An ancient-DNA analysis has solved a centuries-old mystery surrounding the deaths of two members of the powerful Renaissance Medici family, confirming they succumbed to malaria.
The study focused on the remains of Giovanni de’ Medici, who died in 1498, and Cosimo I de’ Medici, who passed away in 1519. Researchers extracted ancient DNA from their bones and found evidence of the *Plasmodium falciparum* parasite, which causes malaria. This finding confirms historical suspicions about the cause of their deaths.
The analysis provides a definitive answer to what had long been speculated by historians. While previous accounts suggested various illnesses, including poisoning, the genetic evidence now points firmly towards malaria as the culprit. The researchers state that this discovery sheds light on the health challenges faced even by prominent families during the Renaissance period.
The findings demonstrate how ancient-DNA analysis can resolve historical mysteries and provide insights into past diseases. It also highlights the widespread presence of malaria in Europe centuries ago, a disease now largely eradicated from the continent.
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