NEWS

Genetic Diversity of the Punic People: 

The Role of Haplogroup E-V22 and Its Mediterranean Legacy 

07 March 2025 - By Richard Blandini

Recent advancements in ancient DNA research have shed new light on the genetic history of the Punic people, descendants of the Phoenicians who established settlements across the Mediterranean. A new study analyzing 210 individuals from sites in the Levant, North Africa, Iberia, Sicily, Sardinia, and Ibiza has revealed that Punic populations were highly diverse, with minimal Levantine genetic ancestry. Instead, their genetic makeup closely resembled those of populations in Southern Europe and the Aegean.

One of the most striking findings is the presence of haplogroup E-V22, a Y-DNA lineage with roots in the Levant and Northeast Africa, which was identified in seven individuals from various Punic sites. This discovery provides valuable insights into the movement and distribution of E-V22 within the ancient Mediterranean world. 

Haplogroup E-V22 in the Punic World

The study identified seven E-V22 samples, distributed as follows:

• 2 from Israel

• 1 from Tunisia

• 2 from Spain

• 2 from Italy

These findings suggest that E-V22, despite its Levantine origin, was not exclusive to the Near East but had spread across the Punic world, likely through Phoenician expansion and trade networks. The presence of E-V22 in Sicily, Sardinia, and Iberia indicates a strong connection between Punic settlers and local populations, reinforcing the idea that the Phoenicians integrated with indigenous groups rather than replacing them.

Additional E Haplogroups in the Study

Beyond E-V22, the study also identified several other subclades of haplogroup E, further highlighting its importance in the Punic genetic landscape:

• E-V12 (Israel)

• E-CTS6667 (Israel)

• E-CTS567 (Israel, Spain)

• E-M44 (Spain)

• E-M84 (Tunisia)

• E-Y181645 (Italy)

• E-Y305618 (Spain)

• E-Y49668 (Italy)

• E-Y6720 (Tunisia)

• E-Z22639 (Italy)

• E-CTS1273 (Italy)

E-V22 and Its Significance in Southern Europe

The presence of E-V22 in Punic remains strengthens the theory that this haplogroup played a role in the genetic formation of Southern European populations. It also confirms previous studies suggesting a deep historical link between Sicily and the wider Mediterranean, particularly North Africa and the Levant.

These findings challenge the long-held assumption that Punic populations were predominantly Levantine in origin. Instead, they reveal a complex history of admixture and integration with local groups across the Mediterranean. The Phoenicians, renowned for their maritime prowess, likely acted as genetic intermediaries, facilitating gene flow between distant regions.

Conclusion

The discovery of E-V22 among the Punic samples reaffirms the haplogroup’s significant role in ancient Mediterranean populations. While its origins lie in the Levant, its widespread presence across Punic sites in Italy, Spain, and North Africa suggests a history of migration, admixture, and cultural assimilation. This study not only enhances our understanding of Phoenician genetic history but also highlights the deep and interconnected ancestry of Mediterranean peoples.

As further ancient DNA research emerges, haplogroup E-V22 may continue to provide crucial insights into the complex demographic movements that shaped the ancient world.

References

David Reich Lab (2025). Punic people were genetically diverse with almost no Levantine ancestors. https://www.ebi.ac.uk/ena/browser/view/PRJEB86313

David Reich Lab (2025). List of punic remains.docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1I8HSXVOw9smQdyS2DLTk_kMNEQJnJpQGWCtXJ8Jm3hE/edit?gid=349637253#gid=349637253