Recent archaeological research conducted in the Alekseevski municipal district, located in the Republic of Tatarstan, has uncovered an archaeological complex consisting of two burial grounds and a settlement from the Bulgar-Golden Horde period.
This discovery sheds light on the historical significance of the region, particularly following the collapse of Old Great Bulgaria in the 7th century.
After the fall of Old Great Bulgaria, the Bulgarians of Kotrag established Volga Bulgaria in the middle Volga region, with Bolghar as its capital. This new state emerged as a vital trading hub between Europe and Asia, strategically positioned along the Volga River. However, in the 13th century, Volga Bulgaria was annexed by the Mongols and became part of the Ulus Jochi, later known as the Golden Horde.
The recent excavations, conducted in preparation for a highway construction project, revealed two burial grounds and a settlement that date from the 10th to the 14th centuries AD. According to a press statement from the State Committees of the Republic of Tatarstan, these sites are associated with the Bulgar pre-Mongol and Golden Horde periods, as well as elements of the Chiyalik culture.
The Chiyalik culture refers to a historical and archaeological culture that existed in the Volga region during the early medieval period, particularly from the 9th to the 13th centuries. It is distinguished by its unique blend of influences from various neighboring cultures, particularly during the early medieval period in the Volga region. What sets the Chiyalik people apart is their distinctive burial practices, which often include elaborate grave goods and specific orientations of graves that reflect their beliefs about the afterlife. The pottery of the Chiyalik culture is notable for its intricate designs and forms, often featuring animal motifs and geometric patterns that showcase their artistic skills and cultural identity.
Additionally, the Chiyalik culture is characterized by a strong sense of community and social organization, as evidenced by the layout of their settlements and the presence of communal structures. Their agricultural practices were advanced for the time, allowing them to thrive in a region that was a crossroads of trade between Europe and Asia. This cultural exchange enriched their society, leading to innovations in craftsmanship and trade networks that connected them with other cultures, such as the Khazars and the Kievan Rus.
Designated as “Sakonsky Burial Ground I,” “Sakonsky Burial Ground II,” and “Sakonskoye Settlement IV,” the complex has yielded a wealth of artifacts, including fragments of circular and molded ceramics, bone remains, grinding stones, and pit burials containing human remains.
Ivan Gushchin, Chairman of the Tatarstan Committee for the Protection of Cultural Heritage Sites, emphasized the importance of these findings, stating, “Following the results, the discovered archaeological monuments will be taken under state protection.” He also noted that artefacts from the late 19th to early 20th centuries were found in the southern part of the complex, indicating later settlement activity in the area.
This archaeological complex not only provides insights into the burial practices and daily lives of medieval people but also highlights the rich cultural heritage of Tatarstan. As efforts continue to preserve these newly discovered sites, the findings promise to enhance our understanding of the region’s historical narrative.
State committees of the Republic of Tatarstan
Cover Image Credit: State committees of the Republic of Tatarstan
