The burned bones of domestic animals are perhaps the most evocative element.

Vagalinski, as reported by Archaeology Magazine, suggested that the presence of animals might indicate that “people received word of an imminent attack and brought their livestock into the fortress.” This is a plausible interpretation consistent with documented patterns of behavior in ancient siege and raid scenarios: when word came of an approaching threat, urban populations would sometimes bring their animals — valuable and difficult to replace — behind the protection of the city walls or into strongly fortified areas.

If this interpretation is correct, it suggests that the event at Deultum’s western gate was not entirely without warning.

There may have been enough advance notice for some people to move their animals to what they believed would be safety.