- Agenția Națională Arheologică, Chișinău, Republica Moldova
The interested reader has received an excellent guide about one of the most interesting regions of the Republic of Moldova, located at the intersection of different cultures and natural areas.
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Considerând bunurile culturale drept componentă a patrimoniului țării, conectat la societatea contemporană, preocupările autorilor s-au axat pe sinteza și descrierea unui spațiu al valorilor naționale relevante, care s-au aflat la baza... more
Considerând bunurile culturale drept componentă a patrimoniului țării, conectat la societatea contemporană, preocupările autorilor s-au axat pe sinteza și descrierea unui spațiu al valorilor naționale relevante, care s-au aflat la baza obiectivelor schițate și a acțiunilor propuse spre realizare în proiect, acestea fiind (a) valorificarea prin cercetare a patrimoniului cultural cu preponderență a celui material; (b) elaborarea Platformei Științifice Naționale pentru Valorificarea Patrimoniului Cultural al Republicii Moldova; (c) ilustrarea fotografică şi imagologică a elementelor de patrimoniu ca parte indestructibilă a culturii tradiționale; (d) elaborarea volumului ”Patrimoniul cultural național ca resursă pentru o dezvoltare durabilă a Republicii Moldova” ( Volumul I).
Evident, lucrarea își propune să lanseze și să susțină mesaje de conotație sensibilizatoare privind stimularea și dezvoltarea politicilor publice în domeniu, implicarea factorilor de decizie în refacerea punţilor pentru valorizarea identitară prin patrimoniul cultural, conştientizarea importanţei tezaurului spiritual și material national în educaţie şi a valorificării potenţialului acestuia în viața cotidiană.
Prin aceasta vom preciza că volumul se configurează din fragmente mai mult sau mai puțin coagulate într-un tot integru, din care pot fi decelate pagini despre patrimoniul cultural al țării, privit ca un liant între trecut și prezent, iar acest fapt ne obligă să fim responsabili de păstrarea, protejarea și transmiterea lui nealterată următoarelor generații, pentru a beneficia în măsură deplină de aceste bunuri comune.
Evident, lucrarea își propune să lanseze și să susțină mesaje de conotație sensibilizatoare privind stimularea și dezvoltarea politicilor publice în domeniu, implicarea factorilor de decizie în refacerea punţilor pentru valorizarea identitară prin patrimoniul cultural, conştientizarea importanţei tezaurului spiritual și material national în educaţie şi a valorificării potenţialului acestuia în viața cotidiană.
Prin aceasta vom preciza că volumul se configurează din fragmente mai mult sau mai puțin coagulate într-un tot integru, din care pot fi decelate pagini despre patrimoniul cultural al țării, privit ca un liant între trecut și prezent, iar acest fapt ne obligă să fim responsabili de păstrarea, protejarea și transmiterea lui nealterată următoarelor generații, pentru a beneficia în măsură deplină de aceste bunuri comune.
Research Interests: Ethnohistory, Archaeology, Architecture, Romanian History, Cultural Heritage, and 13 moreEthnography, Romanian Studies, Ethnology, Romanian Archaeology, History of Moldova, Istorie, Etnicity, Romanian Art History, Cultural Antropology, Muzeologia, istoria Basarabiei, Muzeologie, and Istoria Moldovei
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Archaeological research in medieval site from Lozova - On the Border with Vorniceni. Preliminary results. The authors present key data on archaeological research from 2010 and 2011 years, made in an archaeological site with many cultural... more
Archaeological research in medieval site from Lozova - On the Border with Vorniceni. Preliminary results. The authors
present key data on archaeological research from 2010 and 2011 years, made in an archaeological site with many cultural
and chronological horizons from Lozova - On the Border with Vorniceni. The oldest reported remains of material culture date
from the early Middle Ages (VI – VII century), being represented by a deepened complex equipped with a fire installation,
a spindles, several fragments of made by hand vessels and faunal remains. The second cultural horizon chronologically
corresponds to the Golden Horde domination period (the first and the second third of the XIVth century) and is documented
by crocks of pottery, pieces of cast iron vessels, an iron padlock and animal bones. The last archaeological horizon corresponds to Moldavian medieval state period (the second part of the XIV-th – XV-th centuries), being represented by scattered
fragments specific to this epoch settlements and by a cemetery with graves for inhumation. The 54 graves, so far identified,
belong to a local community; all deceased (adults and children) were buried according to the traditional Christian ritual:
back, head stretched westward and legs outstretched, arms bent at the elbows, hands resting on the abdomen, chest or
shoulders. Funerary inventory is generally poor, in some graves only one or two pieces of clothing or jewelry being discovered: spheroidal buttons, head rings, silver and bronze rings, a silver earring, glass pulp and coral beads, pieces indicating
that the cemetery was used in the period of XIV-XV century. This archaeological ensemble consisting of a settlement and a
cemetery is located on the border between the current villages Vorniceni and Lozova in an area, where during the reign of Alexander the Good (Alexandru cel Bun), Săcăreni village is assumed to exist. At April 25, 1420 Prince Alexander the Good
endowed it, together with Lozova, Vorniceni and other seven villages from Bucovat valley, to vornic (governor) Oana for
“just and faithful service”.
present key data on archaeological research from 2010 and 2011 years, made in an archaeological site with many cultural
and chronological horizons from Lozova - On the Border with Vorniceni. The oldest reported remains of material culture date
from the early Middle Ages (VI – VII century), being represented by a deepened complex equipped with a fire installation,
a spindles, several fragments of made by hand vessels and faunal remains. The second cultural horizon chronologically
corresponds to the Golden Horde domination period (the first and the second third of the XIVth century) and is documented
by crocks of pottery, pieces of cast iron vessels, an iron padlock and animal bones. The last archaeological horizon corresponds to Moldavian medieval state period (the second part of the XIV-th – XV-th centuries), being represented by scattered
fragments specific to this epoch settlements and by a cemetery with graves for inhumation. The 54 graves, so far identified,
belong to a local community; all deceased (adults and children) were buried according to the traditional Christian ritual:
back, head stretched westward and legs outstretched, arms bent at the elbows, hands resting on the abdomen, chest or
shoulders. Funerary inventory is generally poor, in some graves only one or two pieces of clothing or jewelry being discovered: spheroidal buttons, head rings, silver and bronze rings, a silver earring, glass pulp and coral beads, pieces indicating
that the cemetery was used in the period of XIV-XV century. This archaeological ensemble consisting of a settlement and a
cemetery is located on the border between the current villages Vorniceni and Lozova in an area, where during the reign of Alexander the Good (Alexandru cel Bun), Săcăreni village is assumed to exist. At April 25, 1420 Prince Alexander the Good
endowed it, together with Lozova, Vorniceni and other seven villages from Bucovat valley, to vornic (governor) Oana for
“just and faithful service”.
In 2020, the National Agency for Archaeology conducted preventive archaeological research at barrow No. 8 in Hanasenii Noi, Leova district. As a result of the investigation, 9 graves and 11 pits were discovered. The initial mound was... more
In 2020, the National Agency for Archaeology conducted preventive archaeological research at barrow No. 8 in Hanasenii Noi, Leova district. As a result of the investigation, 9 graves and 11 pits were discovered. The initial mound was constructed above three Late Eneolithic graves, subsequently destroyed, and attributed to the Cernavoda I culture. Later on, the following burials were identified within the mound: a grave, likely associated with the Jivotilovka culture, a pit burial of the Yamnaya culture, two burials of the Catacomb culture, one burial of the Multi-pit culture, and a grave dating back to the medieval period.
In the central part of the mound, ancient disturbances were documented, during which graves 1, 3, 4, and 9 were either destroyed or severely damaged. Additionally, disruptions from the medieval or modern period were observed, with the excavation of two pits, likely serving as shelters for signal pyres.
In the central part of the mound, ancient disturbances were documented, during which graves 1, 3, 4, and 9 were either destroyed or severely damaged. Additionally, disruptions from the medieval or modern period were observed, with the excavation of two pits, likely serving as shelters for signal pyres.
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In the years 2019 and 2020, the National Archaeological Agency carried out rescue archaeological research in Cobani (Glodeni district) in a fortified settlement of the Cucuteni culture on the promontory from the flow of the Camencuța... more
In the years 2019 and 2020, the National Archaeological Agency carried out rescue archaeological research in Cobani (Glodeni district) in a fortified settlement of the Cucuteni culture on the promontory from the flow of the Camencuța stream into the Camenca river, called Pe Stâncuță. The settlement was discovered in 1960 by Nicolae Chetraru, who collected then several archaeological materials from the surface of the site, and at its southern limit he noticed a wave and an adjacent defence trench. In 2009, the Eneolithic settlement at Cobani-Pe Stâncuță was partially explored through geophysical surveys, three defensive ditches and more than 20 dwellings and other features being identified.
As a result of the archaeological investigations, two surface dwellings with a platform, a large hovel, portions of five defence trenches and over 200 household pits, pales pits or for other purposes, were discovered. Some features were overlapped or intersected. An impressive number of ceramics and faunal remains were recovered from within the complexes, as well as various artifacts made of copper, fired clay, horn, bone, flint and stone.
The vast majority of the vestiges discovered in the Eneolithic site at Cobani-Pe Stâncuță find analogues in the settlements of phase A of the Cucuteni culture, located in the middle basin of the Prut River, such as those at Cuconestii Vechi-Stânca lui Harascu, Drăgușeni-Ostrov, Truşeşti-Țuguieta and other.
As a result of the archaeological investigations, two surface dwellings with a platform, a large hovel, portions of five defence trenches and over 200 household pits, pales pits or for other purposes, were discovered. Some features were overlapped or intersected. An impressive number of ceramics and faunal remains were recovered from within the complexes, as well as various artifacts made of copper, fired clay, horn, bone, flint and stone.
The vast majority of the vestiges discovered in the Eneolithic site at Cobani-Pe Stâncuță find analogues in the settlements of phase A of the Cucuteni culture, located in the middle basin of the Prut River, such as those at Cuconestii Vechi-Stânca lui Harascu, Drăgușeni-Ostrov, Truşeşti-Țuguieta and other.
A category of remarkable fortifications in the Prut-Dniester area are represented by earth walls. The most important are two linear fortifications, called Upper Trajan’s Wall (Valul lui Traian de Sus, VTS) and Lower Trajan’s Wall (Valul... more
A category of remarkable fortifications in the Prut-Dniester area are represented by earth walls. The most important are two linear fortifications, called Upper Trajan’s Wall (Valul lui Traian de Sus, VTS) and Lower Trajan’s Wall (Valul lui Traian de Jos, VTJ), erected in the southern part of the Prut-Dniester space. Both of these valla have been mentioned since the 16th century in the old Moldavian diplomas, under the name of Troian. The interest in these valuable monuments grows in the modern era when different topographical maps are elaborated that also include some valla from the Prut-Dniester space. The route and external appearance of Trajan’s Walls were more precisely established by surface surveys carried out in the first half of the 20th century by Sc. Panaitescu, C. Uhlig, G.B. Fedorov and R. Vulpe. New information on the structure, shape and size of these linear fortifications has been obtained following archaeological and interdisciplinary research carried out by various specialists during the Soviet period and in the last decade.
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The article presents the main data of the archeological research from Lozova from 2010. During the excavations were identifi ed archeological remains pertaining to three periods: early middle age (VI-VII Century), documented by a complex... more
The article presents the main data of the archeological research from Lozova from 2010. During the excavations were identifi ed archeological remains pertaining to three periods: early middle age (VI-VII Century), documented by a complex of deepened housing equipped with a fi re facility; the period of Golden Horde domination (XIV Century); State Moldovan medieval period (the end of XIV-XVI century) documented by pieces specifi c to the settlements of this age, and a cemetery belonging to a Christian Community. The investigated Necropolis is situated near by border between the current villages Lozova and Vorniceni, where during the reign of Alexandru cel Bun was, perhaps, the Socăreni village (then disappeared) which was given together with other nine villages in the valley of Bucovăţ to Oană Vornic on
On présente les fi bules, en nombre de 16 (14 complète et 2 fragments de ressorts), décuvertes dans la nécropole Sântana de Mureş-Černjachov de Brăviceni. Tenante compte de leurs formes, elles peuvent être classifi ées en trois types... more
On présente les fi bules, en nombre de 16 (14 complète et 2 fragments de ressorts), décuvertes dans la nécropole Sântana de Mureş-Černjachov de Brăviceni. Tenante compte de leurs
formes, elles peuvent être classifi ées en trois types distinctes, a savoir: 1. Fibules en bronze à
pied enroulé; 2. Fibules en bronze à portagrafe fi xe; 3. Fibules d’argent et metal blanc avec semidisque et plaque à pied.
Le premier de ces types, les fi bules à piede enroulé, est représentée par 8 découvertes. Dans
le cadre des ce type on peut identifi er deux variantes, qui se datent diff éremment: 1a. Fibules
avec spirale du ressort formée de deux fi ls; 2a. Fibules avec spirale du ressort formée d’une seule
pièce.
Le 2 et 3 types, qui se divident en deux variantes, sont documentée par seulement 3 exemplaires.
La présence de ces fi bules, comme aussi d’autres objets et élémentes, ont permis à l’auteurs
de dater la necropole de Brăviceni au deuxiéme partie de IV-e siécle de n.é.
formes, elles peuvent être classifi ées en trois types distinctes, a savoir: 1. Fibules en bronze à
pied enroulé; 2. Fibules en bronze à portagrafe fi xe; 3. Fibules d’argent et metal blanc avec semidisque et plaque à pied.
Le premier de ces types, les fi bules à piede enroulé, est représentée par 8 découvertes. Dans
le cadre des ce type on peut identifi er deux variantes, qui se datent diff éremment: 1a. Fibules
avec spirale du ressort formée de deux fi ls; 2a. Fibules avec spirale du ressort formée d’une seule
pièce.
Le 2 et 3 types, qui se divident en deux variantes, sont documentée par seulement 3 exemplaires.
La présence de ces fi bules, comme aussi d’autres objets et élémentes, ont permis à l’auteurs
de dater la necropole de Brăviceni au deuxiéme partie de IV-e siécle de n.é.
This article presents the archaeological materials from the multi-layered settlement of Ialoveni – Southern City Border, resulted from the 2006 research campaign. The oldest culturalchronological horizon yielded some scarce ceramic... more
This article presents the archaeological materials from
the multi-layered settlement of Ialoveni – Southern City Border, resulted from the 2006 research campaign. The oldest culturalchronological horizon yielded some scarce ceramic fragments of the Chişinău-Corlăteni type from the Early Hallstatt period.
The next horizon belongs to the Roman period (II-III centuries A.D.) and comprised two storage (?) cylindrical pits as well as
fragments of rough and fine pottery ware, most of which were amphorae pieces. The excavations also brought out traces of an
Early Middle Age horizon (VIII-IX centuries A.D.), consisting of an oven’s remnants, together with rough pottery fragments.
Finally, the fourth (and the last) cultural-chronological horizon was identified not after ceramic, but after two iron items – a
ploughshare and a cuirass detail. According to the existing analogies, these objects are dated with the Golden Horde period,
specifically with the first three quarters of the XIVth century A.D.
the multi-layered settlement of Ialoveni – Southern City Border, resulted from the 2006 research campaign. The oldest culturalchronological horizon yielded some scarce ceramic fragments of the Chişinău-Corlăteni type from the Early Hallstatt period.
The next horizon belongs to the Roman period (II-III centuries A.D.) and comprised two storage (?) cylindrical pits as well as
fragments of rough and fine pottery ware, most of which were amphorae pieces. The excavations also brought out traces of an
Early Middle Age horizon (VIII-IX centuries A.D.), consisting of an oven’s remnants, together with rough pottery fragments.
Finally, the fourth (and the last) cultural-chronological horizon was identified not after ceramic, but after two iron items – a
ploughshare and a cuirass detail. According to the existing analogies, these objects are dated with the Golden Horde period,
specifically with the first three quarters of the XIVth century A.D.
When Bessarabia was part of the Russian Empire (1812-1917), the Russian imperial authorities, and especially the local governments, showed persistent interest in the historical and cultural past of Moldovans. During that period, some... more
When Bessarabia was part of the Russian Empire (1812-1917), the Russian imperial authorities, and especially the local governments, showed persistent interest in the historical and cultural past of Moldovans. During that period, some local legends were published, one of them being The Giant’s Mound. Thanks to the member of the statistics committee of Bessarabia’s local government, I. Sorochin, the legend was printed in 1864, but still remained unknown by contemporary researchers of oral folk literature. The article below brings this legend to the spotlight. In addition, we publish another variant of the legend as told by historian Demir Dragnev.
This legend focuses on an archaeological monument – an oblong tumulus – situated between the villages of Rublenita and Rublenita Noua in Soroca District and called, as in the legend, The Giant’s Mound. In the past, this archaeological monument was among the most famous in Bessarabia, having today an inestimable cultural and historical value.
Unfortunately, during the last few decades, the tumulus has been partially affected by the construction of a road. We strongly believe that the degradation of the tumulus should be stopped immediately, in order to avoid the destruction of a monument that could become a historic landmark in Soroca.
This legend focuses on an archaeological monument – an oblong tumulus – situated between the villages of Rublenita and Rublenita Noua in Soroca District and called, as in the legend, The Giant’s Mound. In the past, this archaeological monument was among the most famous in Bessarabia, having today an inestimable cultural and historical value.
Unfortunately, during the last few decades, the tumulus has been partially affected by the construction of a road. We strongly believe that the degradation of the tumulus should be stopped immediately, in order to avoid the destruction of a monument that could become a historic landmark in Soroca.
The article focuses on a coulter plough discovered in a site with several inhabitation levels in Ialoveni - The south outskirts of the town. Based on direct analogies, the authors consider that this coulter plough dates back to the 14th... more
The article focuses on a coulter plough discovered in a site with several inhabitation
levels in Ialoveni - The south outskirts of the town. Based on direct analogies, the
authors consider that this coulter plough dates back to the 14th century or more
exactly to the period when the Golded Horde dominated in the region. In the light
of this discovery, some considerations are made as regards the evolution of ploughing
tools in the East-Carpathian space in the Roman and medieval epochs.
levels in Ialoveni - The south outskirts of the town. Based on direct analogies, the
authors consider that this coulter plough dates back to the 14th century or more
exactly to the period when the Golded Horde dominated in the region. In the light
of this discovery, some considerations are made as regards the evolution of ploughing
tools in the East-Carpathian space in the Roman and medieval epochs.
Among the handicraft activities practiced in the Sântana de Mureș-Černjachov settlements (SM-Č) from the Cogâlnic basin, pottery occupied a distinct place. In the settlements of this region, in fact, as in most of the archeological... more
Among the handicraft activities practiced in the Sântana de Mureș-Černjachov settlements (SM-Č) from the Cogâlnic basin, pottery occupied a distinct place. In the settlements of this region, in fact, as in most of the archeological objectives of SM-Č type, the handmade pottery appears in an extremely small quantity, occupying in the total pottery production a completely insignificant percentage. This shows that pottery, during the period of existence of the respective settlements, had passed to craft production. Elaborated technique ceramics made of fine or coarse paste, comprising containers of various shapes, executed in a neat manner, indicate a high degree of potters specialization.
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The linear fortification Upper Trajan’s Wall is one of the most important archaeological monuments on the territory of the Republic of Moldova. Unlike other representative archaeological sites, this imposing earth-work frotification, with... more
The linear fortification Upper Trajan’s Wall is one of the most important archaeological monuments on the territory of the Republic of Moldova. Unlike other representative archaeological sites, this imposing earth-work frotification, with a length of about 120 km, which crosses the entire Prut-Dniester area, from Leova, on the Prut River, to Copanca, on the Dniester River, is still insufficiently researched and known. In September 2019, on the occasion of the M3 road construction (Porumbrei-Cimișlia section), which was to intersect the Upper Trajan’s Wall on the sector between the villages of Gradiște and Coștangalia, Cimișlia district), the joint team of the National Agency for Archaeology and of the Moldova State University conducted preventive archaeological researches. The obtained results are able to complete or even correct the older information, but without having discovered materials regarding the dating of this important linear fortification, the problem to be solved in the future.
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A bronze fibula of the 5th century AD is presented in the article. It was recovered in 2013 from an inhabitant of the city of Soroca together with other materials, dating mostly from the 4th century AD. Probably, artefacts come from the... more
A bronze fibula of the 5th century AD is presented in the article. It was recovered in 2013 from an inhabitant of the city of Soroca together with other materials, dating mostly from the 4th century AD. Probably, artefacts come from
the archaeological site of Parcani-Valea Odaia
(d. Soroca), which contains traces of dwelling
from the late bronze and the late Roman period.
The indicated fibula is made by bronze casting, has an arched form, semi-circular in section, being provided with two end plates, one triangular and one rhombic, both decorated in the Kerbschnitt technique. It belongs to the
Prša-Levice type, by J. Werner, predominantly spread in the Middle Danube region and the Crimea. The type of fibula is dated D2/D3 (430-470) and is attributed to some Germanic populations. The Parcani piece is the first of this kind
discovered in the Prut-Dniester area, the closest geographic analogies being found in the cemetery during the migration from BotosaniDealul Cărămidăriei, dated in the 5th century
and assigned to Ostrogoth.
the archaeological site of Parcani-Valea Odaia
(d. Soroca), which contains traces of dwelling
from the late bronze and the late Roman period.
The indicated fibula is made by bronze casting, has an arched form, semi-circular in section, being provided with two end plates, one triangular and one rhombic, both decorated in the Kerbschnitt technique. It belongs to the
Prša-Levice type, by J. Werner, predominantly spread in the Middle Danube region and the Crimea. The type of fibula is dated D2/D3 (430-470) and is attributed to some Germanic populations. The Parcani piece is the first of this kind
discovered in the Prut-Dniester area, the closest geographic analogies being found in the cemetery during the migration from BotosaniDealul Cărămidăriei, dated in the 5th century
and assigned to Ostrogoth.
The city of Cahul, one of the most important urban settlements in the south-western area of the Republic of Moldova, is located on the Frumoasa river, a tributary of the Prut river to the south of the Roșu village. The territorial matrix... more
The city of Cahul, one of the most important urban settlements in the south-western area of the Republic of
Moldova, is located on the Frumoasa river, a tributary of the Prut river to the south of the Roșu village. The territorial matrix of the oldest medieval settlement of the present Cahul city was at the mouth of Frumoasa, here being
located, according to a charter from the Stephen the Great from 1502, the village of Șcheia. The same charter
mentions that the owners of this village from 1502 had an act of ownership inherited from their parents and grandparents, from the time of Alexander the Good, Prince of Moldavia between 1400-1432. This documentary reality
allows us to affirm that the chronological history of the Șcheia village starts from the 15th century or, perhaps, the
late 14th, even though the oldest written attestation of the locality dates from the early 16th century.
A very important indication for the identification and location of the Șcheia village was the record of its placement at the Frumoasa estuary. In connection with the historical geography of the rivulet, the researchers noted an
anthropic intervention produced in the years after the World War II, that resulted in the extension of the course of
this water, which almost doubled to its original length.
During the 17-19th centuries, at the mouth of Frumoasa, the village of Frumoasa is mentioned, which obviously
took over the name of the rivulet from here. After the annexation of the east side of Moldova to the Russian Empire
in 1812, the town retains its status as a rural settlement until 1835, when by a Decree of the Emperor Nicholas I
it was ordered to transform the village of Frumoasa into a city and also into a county center with the name Cahul.
This new denomination of the locality was made for an eminently ideological reason, related to the celebration
of 65 years of the victory of the Russian army over the Turkish one in the battle on the Cahul river, in July 1770.
Some building progress in Cahul was registered in the years of Tsarist rule, then when south-western counties
of Basarabia were components of the Principality of Moldova and the United Principalities of Romania (1856-
1878), as well as in the next stage, when they were re-annexed to the Russian Empire. In the locality from the
mouth of Frumoasa, throughout the urban phase of its history, various building constructions have been executed,
including underground rooms for storing alcoholic beverages (especially wine, but also wine and beer) and food.
On the occasion of the „Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu” Musical Theater construction, the first investigations in the
Cahul city core were carried out in the spring of 2016, as five trenches of various dimensions, with a total area of
about 90 sq. m were excavated. As a result of the rescue excavations, a dwelling, three underground caves and
a few pits of various function were completely or partially dismantled.
The dwelling was rectangular with dimensions of 4,5×5,1 m and depth of about 3,5 m from the modern level,
with the long sides being oriented in the direction E-W. The building walls were made of sun-dried clay bricks
and were supported in the inside by wooden pillars, also inside was found a fire-place with circular hearth with
a diameter of about 0,5 m. The inventory of the dwelling consisted of numerous pieces of ceramic, faience or
glass pots and other materials, which allow enclosing the complex in the second half of the 19th century. The
south-eastern part of the dwelling was intersected by a gallery (no. 1), which was better preserved and could
be fully researched.
Three objects are underground caves dug at a depth of about 5 m and lined with burnt bricks. The 1st cave
had a total length of about 22 m, the width at the base in the interior was of 1,4-1,7 m and the height of 1,7-2,1
m. The gallery no.1 contained an entire glass vessel, fragments of other containers of glass, clay and faience, as
well as several other pieces, dated back to the late 19th century and in the first decades of the 20th century. The
length of the other two galleries, of which one (no. 2) is N-S, and another W-E oriented, could not be specified,
as the domes partially collapsed or continued beneath the foundation pit of the theater building. It is important to
emphasize that the gallery no. 2 is located to the west of the theater edifice under construction, being able to be
preserved, fully researched, restored and valued in the near future.
Moldova, is located on the Frumoasa river, a tributary of the Prut river to the south of the Roșu village. The territorial matrix of the oldest medieval settlement of the present Cahul city was at the mouth of Frumoasa, here being
located, according to a charter from the Stephen the Great from 1502, the village of Șcheia. The same charter
mentions that the owners of this village from 1502 had an act of ownership inherited from their parents and grandparents, from the time of Alexander the Good, Prince of Moldavia between 1400-1432. This documentary reality
allows us to affirm that the chronological history of the Șcheia village starts from the 15th century or, perhaps, the
late 14th, even though the oldest written attestation of the locality dates from the early 16th century.
A very important indication for the identification and location of the Șcheia village was the record of its placement at the Frumoasa estuary. In connection with the historical geography of the rivulet, the researchers noted an
anthropic intervention produced in the years after the World War II, that resulted in the extension of the course of
this water, which almost doubled to its original length.
During the 17-19th centuries, at the mouth of Frumoasa, the village of Frumoasa is mentioned, which obviously
took over the name of the rivulet from here. After the annexation of the east side of Moldova to the Russian Empire
in 1812, the town retains its status as a rural settlement until 1835, when by a Decree of the Emperor Nicholas I
it was ordered to transform the village of Frumoasa into a city and also into a county center with the name Cahul.
This new denomination of the locality was made for an eminently ideological reason, related to the celebration
of 65 years of the victory of the Russian army over the Turkish one in the battle on the Cahul river, in July 1770.
Some building progress in Cahul was registered in the years of Tsarist rule, then when south-western counties
of Basarabia were components of the Principality of Moldova and the United Principalities of Romania (1856-
1878), as well as in the next stage, when they were re-annexed to the Russian Empire. In the locality from the
mouth of Frumoasa, throughout the urban phase of its history, various building constructions have been executed,
including underground rooms for storing alcoholic beverages (especially wine, but also wine and beer) and food.
On the occasion of the „Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu” Musical Theater construction, the first investigations in the
Cahul city core were carried out in the spring of 2016, as five trenches of various dimensions, with a total area of
about 90 sq. m were excavated. As a result of the rescue excavations, a dwelling, three underground caves and
a few pits of various function were completely or partially dismantled.
The dwelling was rectangular with dimensions of 4,5×5,1 m and depth of about 3,5 m from the modern level,
with the long sides being oriented in the direction E-W. The building walls were made of sun-dried clay bricks
and were supported in the inside by wooden pillars, also inside was found a fire-place with circular hearth with
a diameter of about 0,5 m. The inventory of the dwelling consisted of numerous pieces of ceramic, faience or
glass pots and other materials, which allow enclosing the complex in the second half of the 19th century. The
south-eastern part of the dwelling was intersected by a gallery (no. 1), which was better preserved and could
be fully researched.
Three objects are underground caves dug at a depth of about 5 m and lined with burnt bricks. The 1st cave
had a total length of about 22 m, the width at the base in the interior was of 1,4-1,7 m and the height of 1,7-2,1
m. The gallery no.1 contained an entire glass vessel, fragments of other containers of glass, clay and faience, as
well as several other pieces, dated back to the late 19th century and in the first decades of the 20th century. The
length of the other two galleries, of which one (no. 2) is N-S, and another W-E oriented, could not be specified,
as the domes partially collapsed or continued beneath the foundation pit of the theater building. It is important to
emphasize that the gallery no. 2 is located to the west of the theater edifice under construction, being able to be
preserved, fully researched, restored and valued in the near future.
In the fall of 2017, preventive researches were carried out at the Tuzara I archaeological site (Călărași district, Republic of Moldova), aiming at the revealing of the archaeological potential near the Ungheni-Chișinau gas pipeline.... more
In the fall of 2017, preventive researches were carried out at the Tuzara I archaeological site (Călărași district,
Republic of Moldova), aiming at the revealing of the archaeological potential near the Ungheni-Chișinau gas pipeline.
Discovered in 2015, the site is located on the northern slope of the Bâc river valley, 0.8 km away from the Novaci
village and 3 km to WNW from the Tuzara commune, having a surface of about 180×70 m. The researched section
covered a total surface of 590 sq. m., being drawn from W to E, on a length of 180 m.
As a result of excavations, a number of archaeological complexes and a relatively small amount of materials were
identified, the research of which allowed the assignment of the settlement to the 6-7th centuries AD. There are two
dwellings among the complexes, that were partly deep in the soil, which could be completely excavated.
The dwelling 1 had a rectangular shape with the size of 2.4×3.6 m and a furnace was provided in the NW corner.
An agglomeration of irregularly shaped stones was preserved from it, under which there was an oval-rectangular
hearth of the size of 50×70 cm. Two pits were discovered as well at the base of the complex. Fragments of handmade pots from coarse paste were found in the soil of the filling pits and among the stones of the fire installation.
The dwelling 2 had a rectangular shape with dimensions of 3.8×4.1×3.7×3.6m. In the NE corner there was an
agglomeration of stones 1.9×2.2 m in size was found. Under the stones there was the furnace hearth, quasi-rectangular in shape, with dimensions of 0.4×0.8 m. Seven pits were discovered on the sides and in corners. Besides that,
there were found five spindle whorls and ceramics made оf rough paste in the dwelling. In the NW part, the dwelling
2 was overlapped by another dwelling complex (No. 3), provided with a vaulted clay furnace.
In addition to the dwellings, six agglomerations of burned clay and 13 garbage pits were discovered, belonging
to the settlement of the 6-7th centuries AD.
At the eastern extremity of the section, a burial tomb was also discovered, containing numerous glass beads
near the skeleton legs and a clay spindle whorl near the left hand, being attributed to the Sarmatian culture of the
2nd-3rd centuries AD. This complex, along with a fragment of a human skull and a Roman amphora neck discovered
on the surface indicates the existence of a Sarmatian necropolis in the eastern part of the site, overlaid by the early medieval settlement.
Republic of Moldova), aiming at the revealing of the archaeological potential near the Ungheni-Chișinau gas pipeline.
Discovered in 2015, the site is located on the northern slope of the Bâc river valley, 0.8 km away from the Novaci
village and 3 km to WNW from the Tuzara commune, having a surface of about 180×70 m. The researched section
covered a total surface of 590 sq. m., being drawn from W to E, on a length of 180 m.
As a result of excavations, a number of archaeological complexes and a relatively small amount of materials were
identified, the research of which allowed the assignment of the settlement to the 6-7th centuries AD. There are two
dwellings among the complexes, that were partly deep in the soil, which could be completely excavated.
The dwelling 1 had a rectangular shape with the size of 2.4×3.6 m and a furnace was provided in the NW corner.
An agglomeration of irregularly shaped stones was preserved from it, under which there was an oval-rectangular
hearth of the size of 50×70 cm. Two pits were discovered as well at the base of the complex. Fragments of handmade pots from coarse paste were found in the soil of the filling pits and among the stones of the fire installation.
The dwelling 2 had a rectangular shape with dimensions of 3.8×4.1×3.7×3.6m. In the NE corner there was an
agglomeration of stones 1.9×2.2 m in size was found. Under the stones there was the furnace hearth, quasi-rectangular in shape, with dimensions of 0.4×0.8 m. Seven pits were discovered on the sides and in corners. Besides that,
there were found five spindle whorls and ceramics made оf rough paste in the dwelling. In the NW part, the dwelling
2 was overlapped by another dwelling complex (No. 3), provided with a vaulted clay furnace.
In addition to the dwellings, six agglomerations of burned clay and 13 garbage pits were discovered, belonging
to the settlement of the 6-7th centuries AD.
At the eastern extremity of the section, a burial tomb was also discovered, containing numerous glass beads
near the skeleton legs and a clay spindle whorl near the left hand, being attributed to the Sarmatian culture of the
2nd-3rd centuries AD. This complex, along with a fragment of a human skull and a Roman amphora neck discovered
on the surface indicates the existence of a Sarmatian necropolis in the eastern part of the site, overlaid by the early medieval settlement.
Discovered in 1974 by Veaceslav Bikbaev and verified later by the same archaeologist in 1993 and the specialists of National Agency for Archaeology in 2016, the Prepelița XII site could be identified as an opened settlement with traces of... more
Discovered in 1974 by Veaceslav Bikbaev and verified later by the same archaeologist in 1993 and the specialists of National Agency for Archaeology in 2016, the Prepelița XII site could be identified as an opened settlement
with traces of habitation of various periods, basically being attributed to the Chernyakhov culture the 4th century AD.
The site is located about 1.5 km from the Prepelița village, on the left side of the Ciulucul Mare river, crossed by the
R14 (Bălți–Sărătenii Vechi) road. The SMC-type settlement has a length (in the latitudinal direction) of about 0.7 km
and a width (in meridional one) of about 0.25 km.
Due to the R14 road reconstruction, in the autumn of 2016, a survey was executed and prospect researches
were carried out in the perimeter of the Prepelița XII site. The survey, in the form of a trench of 2×18 m, was excavated in the southern side of the road, at a distance of 8 m from the road, on a relatively plain terrain, where a few
pottery fragments were discovered.
As a result of the excavations, an agglomeration of pieces of burnt clay and stones was discovered, as well as
nine small and medium sized pits, most of them without any finds. On the basis of a fragmentary bowl, worked on
the wheel of fine gray paste, the pit no. 1, which was of cylindrical shape, with a diameter of 0.75 m, dates back to
the Chernyakhov culture. Another circular pit (no. 9), with a 1,25 m diameter and a threshold, has been attributed to
the late Hallstatt (6-5th centuries BC) based on the hand-made pottery fragments. The agglomeration and the bulk
of the pits could not be dated because the lack of the characteristic artifacts. It is interesting to note, however, that
some complexes overlapped.
Among the materials found on the surface of the site, we would like to note a bronze arrowhead provided
with a gloving tube and three winglets, dating back to 5-4th centuries BC, a clay spindle whorl decorated by
incision, a bronze rectangular gasket from a buckle and a fragment of a cup of green glass with thick walls,
ornamented with hexagonal faces, all belonging to the Chernyakhov culture. The clay spindle whorl and the
bronze arrowhead date back more or less widely, but the glass fragments, falls within the Straume VIIA series,
which is characteristic of the later phases of the Chernyakhov culture, corresponding to the second half of the
4th – the early 5th century AD.
with traces of habitation of various periods, basically being attributed to the Chernyakhov culture the 4th century AD.
The site is located about 1.5 km from the Prepelița village, on the left side of the Ciulucul Mare river, crossed by the
R14 (Bălți–Sărătenii Vechi) road. The SMC-type settlement has a length (in the latitudinal direction) of about 0.7 km
and a width (in meridional one) of about 0.25 km.
Due to the R14 road reconstruction, in the autumn of 2016, a survey was executed and prospect researches
were carried out in the perimeter of the Prepelița XII site. The survey, in the form of a trench of 2×18 m, was excavated in the southern side of the road, at a distance of 8 m from the road, on a relatively plain terrain, where a few
pottery fragments were discovered.
As a result of the excavations, an agglomeration of pieces of burnt clay and stones was discovered, as well as
nine small and medium sized pits, most of them without any finds. On the basis of a fragmentary bowl, worked on
the wheel of fine gray paste, the pit no. 1, which was of cylindrical shape, with a diameter of 0.75 m, dates back to
the Chernyakhov culture. Another circular pit (no. 9), with a 1,25 m diameter and a threshold, has been attributed to
the late Hallstatt (6-5th centuries BC) based on the hand-made pottery fragments. The agglomeration and the bulk
of the pits could not be dated because the lack of the characteristic artifacts. It is interesting to note, however, that
some complexes overlapped.
Among the materials found on the surface of the site, we would like to note a bronze arrowhead provided
with a gloving tube and three winglets, dating back to 5-4th centuries BC, a clay spindle whorl decorated by
incision, a bronze rectangular gasket from a buckle and a fragment of a cup of green glass with thick walls,
ornamented with hexagonal faces, all belonging to the Chernyakhov culture. The clay spindle whorl and the
bronze arrowhead date back more or less widely, but the glass fragments, falls within the Straume VIIA series,
which is characteristic of the later phases of the Chernyakhov culture, corresponding to the second half of the
4th – the early 5th century AD.
Among the numerous archaeological sites identified and documented in the last years by the National Agency for Archaeology (NAA), is a settlement with the remains from various periods near Parcani village (Soroca district). First... more
Among the numerous archaeological sites identified and documented in the last years by the National Agency
for Archaeology (NAA), is a settlement with the remains from various periods near Parcani village (Soroca district).
First information about this site came to NAA in 2013 when several items, dating back to the late Bronze Age and the
start of the Migration period, were recovered. The surface surveys carried out in the same year and later in Parcani
resulted in the identification of an important and large settlement with vestiges belonging to the Noua-Sabatinovka
and Chernyakhov cultural assemblages.
Parcani I-Valea Odaia site is located outside of the village, 1.3 km south of the village, on the northern slope
of the Odaia Valley, through which the Camenca river flows to a lake. Its dimensions are about 150×650 m, the
site is oriented in the direction of ENE-WSW. Various hand-made pottery fragments, some of which are decorated with embossed girdles, as well as fragments from a sickle and two bronze pins are attributed to the late
Bronze Age settlement, which occupies only a part of the archaeological site, with a few slightly visible cinder
heaps.
The cultural and chronological horizon of the Gothic migration (the 4th century AD) is better represented, because
of the numerous characteristic ceramic fragments, two clay spindle whorls and several metal pieces, predominantly
the fibulae.
A bronze fibula with a fixed pin catch, a rhomboidal foot and a triangular head above the bow is noted among
them, being dated in the middle third of the 5th century. An end of a bronze strap, provided with holes for fastening
rivets and decorated with incised dots, probably also belongs to the same chronological horizon.
for Archaeology (NAA), is a settlement with the remains from various periods near Parcani village (Soroca district).
First information about this site came to NAA in 2013 when several items, dating back to the late Bronze Age and the
start of the Migration period, were recovered. The surface surveys carried out in the same year and later in Parcani
resulted in the identification of an important and large settlement with vestiges belonging to the Noua-Sabatinovka
and Chernyakhov cultural assemblages.
Parcani I-Valea Odaia site is located outside of the village, 1.3 km south of the village, on the northern slope
of the Odaia Valley, through which the Camenca river flows to a lake. Its dimensions are about 150×650 m, the
site is oriented in the direction of ENE-WSW. Various hand-made pottery fragments, some of which are decorated with embossed girdles, as well as fragments from a sickle and two bronze pins are attributed to the late
Bronze Age settlement, which occupies only a part of the archaeological site, with a few slightly visible cinder
heaps.
The cultural and chronological horizon of the Gothic migration (the 4th century AD) is better represented, because
of the numerous characteristic ceramic fragments, two clay spindle whorls and several metal pieces, predominantly
the fibulae.
A bronze fibula with a fixed pin catch, a rhomboidal foot and a triangular head above the bow is noted among
them, being dated in the middle third of the 5th century. An end of a bronze strap, provided with holes for fastening
rivets and decorated with incised dots, probably also belongs to the same chronological horizon.
The article represents a synthesis of scientific knowledge on the habitat in the basin of the Cogalnic river and its archaeological component at the moment when we started an interdisciplinary project on research and scientific... more
The article represents a synthesis of scientific knowledge on the habitat in the basin of the Cogalnic river and its archaeological component at the moment when we started an interdisciplinary project on research and scientific valorization of the archaeological heritage of the Iron Age in the basin of Cogalnic river from the Republic of Moldova. Related to the way of life of human communities of the Iron Age are presented historical, geographical, geological peculiarities; also: relief, climate, vegetation, animals and soil of the researched micro-region, followed by a repertory of archaeological sites corresponding chronologically and geographically to the researched topic, accompanied by a history of their study with the identification of the main stages and the most involved researchers.
Research Interests:
West-East oriented burials from the necropolis of Sântana Mureş-Černjachov type from Brăviceni village. On propagation of Christianity in Gothia. Unlike the majority of necropolises of the Culture Sântana Mureş-Černjachov with... more
West-East oriented burials from the necropolis of Sântana Mureş-Černjachov type from Brăviceni village. On propagation of Christianity in Gothia. Unlike the majority of necropolises of the Culture Sântana Mureş-Černjachov with incinerations and inhumation of North-South orientation, the necropolis from Brăviceni is dominated by burials with West-East orientation. 89 of 181 (?) recorded burials are of West-East orientation, attaining 49% of the whole recorded amount of burials, or 55.5% of the burials with identified orientation (160 burials). The majority of burials under consideration belong to the simple burialpit type with rectangular or elliptic shape. 33 burials are supplemented with steps, and one burial is with a lateral niche. The
dominating posture of human remains is the position on the back with hands extended along the body. Human remains from 36 burials of West-East orientation are partially damaged or totally destroyed as a result of specific burial ritual, which was also reported from some other necropolises of the Sântana Mureş-Černjachov type. An important peculiarity of the West-East
oriented burials is, as a rule, the complete lack of implements and remains of sacred food. The insignificant number of objects discovered in the burials was represented by adornments, furniture details, and receptacles for beverages. The observed peculiarities of burials (orientation, position of human remains, missing implements) and some analogues from the Roman-Byzantine world give grounds for conclusion that the burials with West-East orientation from Brăviceni and other burial complexes of the Sântana Mureş-Černjachov Culture belong to Christians. This hypothesis is supported by the historical written documents on Northern Danube Gothia.
dominating posture of human remains is the position on the back with hands extended along the body. Human remains from 36 burials of West-East orientation are partially damaged or totally destroyed as a result of specific burial ritual, which was also reported from some other necropolises of the Sântana Mureş-Černjachov type. An important peculiarity of the West-East
oriented burials is, as a rule, the complete lack of implements and remains of sacred food. The insignificant number of objects discovered in the burials was represented by adornments, furniture details, and receptacles for beverages. The observed peculiarities of burials (orientation, position of human remains, missing implements) and some analogues from the Roman-Byzantine world give grounds for conclusion that the burials with West-East orientation from Brăviceni and other burial complexes of the Sântana Mureş-Černjachov Culture belong to Christians. This hypothesis is supported by the historical written documents on Northern Danube Gothia.
The article focuses on the results of archaeological diggings conducted in autumn 2006 at fi ve archaeological sites near Ialoveni, a town situated some 10 km from the Moldovan capital Chisinau. During these researches, archaeologists... more
The article focuses on the results of archaeological diggings conducted in autumn
2006 at fi ve archaeological sites near Ialoveni, a town situated some 10 km from the Moldovan capital Chisinau. During
these researches, archaeologists found numerous vestiges dating from several historical époques, starting with the Neolithic
and ending with the late Middle Age. These artifacts signifi cantly enrich the information about the habitat and dynamics of
living of this micro-region from the basin of Isnovat River
2006 at fi ve archaeological sites near Ialoveni, a town situated some 10 km from the Moldovan capital Chisinau. During
these researches, archaeologists found numerous vestiges dating from several historical époques, starting with the Neolithic
and ending with the late Middle Age. These artifacts signifi cantly enrich the information about the habitat and dynamics of
living of this micro-region from the basin of Isnovat River
The article presents an analysis of adornment items discovered during the excavations of Santana de Mures–Černjachov type burials near Braviceni Village. Adornments represent the most numerous category of findings, however, the... more
The article presents an analysis of adornment items discovered during the excavations of Santana de Mures–Černjachov type burials near Braviceni Village. Adornments represent the most numerous category of findings, however, the decoration types are not diverse and include only necklaces, pendants, amulets and temporal rings. Beads represent the most frequent item found
during the excavation; their quantity amounts to 474 units, 309 of which are made of glass, 146 are made of coral, and 19 are made of cornelian. According to their size, shape, material, color, and ornament, beads form 11 types, some of which could be divided into several variants, and dated in their major part back to the middle and second half of IV century AC. Pendants-amulets represent another group of adornments from Braviceni. This category of adornments appears to be less numerous than beads, but typologically is still quite variable. There are 16 such adornment items represented by nine types and variants, which are dated by IV century AC, mostly by its middle and second half. The last group of adornments from the Braviceni necropolis is represented by temporal rings. Three such items are found: one made of silver and two made of bronze. All of them are made of thin wire, round in cross section, with twisted into a helix tips.
Analogues of those temporal rings are found in many burials and settlements of Santana de Mures–Černjachov type, however they are not frequent. A special chapter of article is dedicated to the way of wearing of the discussed adornmentsby inhabitants of the settlement from Braviceni.
during the excavation; their quantity amounts to 474 units, 309 of which are made of glass, 146 are made of coral, and 19 are made of cornelian. According to their size, shape, material, color, and ornament, beads form 11 types, some of which could be divided into several variants, and dated in their major part back to the middle and second half of IV century AC. Pendants-amulets represent another group of adornments from Braviceni. This category of adornments appears to be less numerous than beads, but typologically is still quite variable. There are 16 such adornment items represented by nine types and variants, which are dated by IV century AC, mostly by its middle and second half. The last group of adornments from the Braviceni necropolis is represented by temporal rings. Three such items are found: one made of silver and two made of bronze. All of them are made of thin wire, round in cross section, with twisted into a helix tips.
Analogues of those temporal rings are found in many burials and settlements of Santana de Mures–Černjachov type, however they are not frequent. A special chapter of article is dedicated to the way of wearing of the discussed adornmentsby inhabitants of the settlement from Braviceni.
The article presents a description of the local pottery discovered in the necropolis dear Braviceni. As in other archaeological sites dated by IV century BC, the local pottery from Braviceni represents three main types: 1, the hand made... more
The article presents a description of the local pottery discovered in the necropolis dear Braviceni. As
in other archaeological sites dated by IV century BC, the local pottery from Braviceni represents three main
types: 1, the hand made ceramics; 2, the rough clay ceramics made on pottery wheel; 3, the fine clay
ceramics made on pottery wheel.
The hand made ceramics is quite rare, about 6% of the total number of vessels. The repertoire of
forms is very limited, differing only pots and lids. The pots can be divided into three categories according to
their shape and size. One of the reported category includes two types of pots.
The rough clay ceramics made on pottery wheel is better represented. The number of discovered
vessels amounts to 40 and represents 38% of the total number of vessels. Two types of vessels are found in
this category: pot and bowl. The pot category is most common in Braviceni, belonging to three different
types. Bowls are represented only by a single small double truncated cone.
The fine clay ceramics made on pottery wheel is the richest type of vessels discovered in the
necropolis from Braviceni, however is less numerous and variable as in other similar burials. One can
distinguish pots, bowls, cups, and amphorettae, which can be divided in many types and variants. Some of
specimens are quite precisely dated, mainly by the second half of the IV century BC.
in other archaeological sites dated by IV century BC, the local pottery from Braviceni represents three main
types: 1, the hand made ceramics; 2, the rough clay ceramics made on pottery wheel; 3, the fine clay
ceramics made on pottery wheel.
The hand made ceramics is quite rare, about 6% of the total number of vessels. The repertoire of
forms is very limited, differing only pots and lids. The pots can be divided into three categories according to
their shape and size. One of the reported category includes two types of pots.
The rough clay ceramics made on pottery wheel is better represented. The number of discovered
vessels amounts to 40 and represents 38% of the total number of vessels. Two types of vessels are found in
this category: pot and bowl. The pot category is most common in Braviceni, belonging to three different
types. Bowls are represented only by a single small double truncated cone.
The fine clay ceramics made on pottery wheel is the richest type of vessels discovered in the
necropolis from Braviceni, however is less numerous and variable as in other similar burials. One can
distinguish pots, bowls, cups, and amphorettae, which can be divided in many types and variants. Some of
specimens are quite precisely dated, mainly by the second half of the IV century BC.
Like in the majority of the Santana de Mures-type cemeteries, in Braviceni there are tombs whose skeletons have not been disturbed and tombs with skeletons partially disturbed or completely damaged back in antiquity. At list 73 (ca. 40%)... more
Like in the majority of the Santana de Mures-type cemeteries, in Braviceni there are tombs whose
skeletons have not been disturbed and tombs with skeletons partially disturbed or completely damaged back
in antiquity. At list 73 (ca. 40%) of 180 recorded tombs are found ravaged in antic times. If compared to
other cemeteries of IV century where the number of disturbed tombs with West-East orientation is much less
than of those with North-South orientation, the situation recorded in Braviceni is different. According to our
records, at list 33 of 89 tombs with West-East orientation (35%) were ravaged across the area of the
necropolis in the ancient times. In some of the disturbed tombs the skeletons were completely destroyed,
while in others they were destroyed only partially. In most partially disturbed tombs, the upper parts of
skeletons, mainly the thoracic, were damaged. In the case of totalled disturbed graves, either the largest part
of bones or only several parts of the skeletons were reburied. The author backs the opinion according to
which the tombs were disturbed as part of rituals involving digging up and destroying skeletons a certain
period after the burial.
skeletons have not been disturbed and tombs with skeletons partially disturbed or completely damaged back
in antiquity. At list 73 (ca. 40%) of 180 recorded tombs are found ravaged in antic times. If compared to
other cemeteries of IV century where the number of disturbed tombs with West-East orientation is much less
than of those with North-South orientation, the situation recorded in Braviceni is different. According to our
records, at list 33 of 89 tombs with West-East orientation (35%) were ravaged across the area of the
necropolis in the ancient times. In some of the disturbed tombs the skeletons were completely destroyed,
while in others they were destroyed only partially. In most partially disturbed tombs, the upper parts of
skeletons, mainly the thoracic, were damaged. In the case of totalled disturbed graves, either the largest part
of bones or only several parts of the skeletons were reburied. The author backs the opinion according to
which the tombs were disturbed as part of rituals involving digging up and destroying skeletons a certain
period after the burial.
In this article are presented the antiquities brought to light from the old Roman epoch necropolis from Brăviceni. Accidentally discovered in 1954, the cemetery was investigated through systematic digging in the period of 1977, 1980 and... more
In this article are presented the antiquities brought to light from the old Roman epoch necropolis
from Brăviceni. Accidentally discovered in 1954, the cemetery was investigated through systematic digging
in the period of 1977, 1980 and 1981. As a result, there were uncovered 181(?) graves (180? inhumations,
one incineration) and 53 ritual holes. The majority of graves had a West-Eastern orientation, being poor or
without inventory. The archaeological material comprises more than 100 clay bowls, two glasses, four silver
coins, fibulae, buckles, combs, beads, pendants, spindles, knifes, and other things. Some graves with a
North-Southern orientation contain animal bones originating from nutritive sources. By its characteristics,
the necropolis from Brăviceni belongs to the Sântana de Mureş-Černjachov culture and, from the chronological
point of view, to the middle and second half of the 4th century.
from Brăviceni. Accidentally discovered in 1954, the cemetery was investigated through systematic digging
in the period of 1977, 1980 and 1981. As a result, there were uncovered 181(?) graves (180? inhumations,
one incineration) and 53 ritual holes. The majority of graves had a West-Eastern orientation, being poor or
without inventory. The archaeological material comprises more than 100 clay bowls, two glasses, four silver
coins, fibulae, buckles, combs, beads, pendants, spindles, knifes, and other things. Some graves with a
North-Southern orientation contain animal bones originating from nutritive sources. By its characteristics,
the necropolis from Brăviceni belongs to the Sântana de Mureş-Černjachov culture and, from the chronological
point of view, to the middle and second half of the 4th century.
The article examines the question of dating and periodization of the cemetery at Braviceni, Orhei. Discovered during a building work, the site was investigated by rescue excavations in 1977, 1980 and 1981, having been discovered 181graves... more
The article examines the question of dating and periodization of the cemetery at Braviceni,
Orhei. Discovered during a building work, the site was investigated by rescue excavations in 1977,
1980 and 1981, having been discovered 181graves and 53 ritual pits (fig. 1). Of the 181 identified
graves, one is cremation and 180 are burials, among which graves with V-E orientation, considered
Christian, prevailed.
To establish internal chronology of the necropolis, a method called "automatic matrix
modification" was applied, having been used the PAST program (Palaeontological Statistics), version
2.17c.
In the combinatorial diagram (table 1), 26 tombs and 32 typological series of objects were
included. Taking into account the asossiation of the inventory parts in the complexes introduced in the
combinatorial diagram, two main groups of graves were pointed out, which would correspond to two
phases of funerals. The first group includes 10 complexes, and the second - 16, each group being
characterized by certain typological series of objects or combinations of them.
For the first group (I) the following categories and types of objects are specific: discoidal
small green glass beads (type 2b), ring glass beads (type 3), sferoidal glass beads, inlaid (No 7),
192
segmented glass beads, overlaid with metal foil (type 9), coral beads (type 11), pendants- amulets from
fish vertebrae (type 2), bitronconic form pots made on the wheel of rough paste (type 3) and
bitronconic form high bowls worked on the wheel of fine paste (type 2a).
The second group of burials (II) are characterized by bronze fibulae with wrapped leg, the
body in tape and a long(type 1) or short (type 1b) spring, silver fibulae with plate and semi-disc (type
3), bronze buckles with oval hook (type 1), bone combs having a semicircular handle and lateral wings
(type 1), pendants-amulets of Cypraea panterina marine shells (type 5b), iron knives, sferoidal small
pots, made on the wheel of fine paste (type 1), bitronconic form low bowls worked on the wheel of
fine paste, (type 2b), bowls with three handles (type 4), mugs made on the wheel of fine paste, with
rounded body (type 1) and having the form of pint mugs (type 2), and Roman clay jugs with round
mouth (type 2).
In the layout plan of the necropolis, the two tombs groups occupy separate areas. Tombs of
Group I, representing the first phase of burials are grouped almost exclusively in the south-eastern part
of the necropolis (fig. 6, 1). Tombs of Group II do not appear in the initial sector of funerals. Instead,
they are spread both in the central and periphery sectors of the necropolis (fig. 6, 2).
Taking into account all the elements, the lower chronological limit of the cemetery at
Braviceni is set somewhere in the second third of the IV-th century and the upper chronological limit -
the end of the IV-th century or in the next early century. As for the time duration of the two phases of
the cemetery evolution, taking into account the picture shown in the combinatatorial diagram, it is
considered that Phase I was shorter, ending probably by the invasion of the Huns, and Phase II, which
included a greater number of graves, covered the last part of the IV-th century, possibly the first two
decades of V-th century.
Orhei. Discovered during a building work, the site was investigated by rescue excavations in 1977,
1980 and 1981, having been discovered 181graves and 53 ritual pits (fig. 1). Of the 181 identified
graves, one is cremation and 180 are burials, among which graves with V-E orientation, considered
Christian, prevailed.
To establish internal chronology of the necropolis, a method called "automatic matrix
modification" was applied, having been used the PAST program (Palaeontological Statistics), version
2.17c.
In the combinatorial diagram (table 1), 26 tombs and 32 typological series of objects were
included. Taking into account the asossiation of the inventory parts in the complexes introduced in the
combinatorial diagram, two main groups of graves were pointed out, which would correspond to two
phases of funerals. The first group includes 10 complexes, and the second - 16, each group being
characterized by certain typological series of objects or combinations of them.
For the first group (I) the following categories and types of objects are specific: discoidal
small green glass beads (type 2b), ring glass beads (type 3), sferoidal glass beads, inlaid (No 7),
192
segmented glass beads, overlaid with metal foil (type 9), coral beads (type 11), pendants- amulets from
fish vertebrae (type 2), bitronconic form pots made on the wheel of rough paste (type 3) and
bitronconic form high bowls worked on the wheel of fine paste (type 2a).
The second group of burials (II) are characterized by bronze fibulae with wrapped leg, the
body in tape and a long(type 1) or short (type 1b) spring, silver fibulae with plate and semi-disc (type
3), bronze buckles with oval hook (type 1), bone combs having a semicircular handle and lateral wings
(type 1), pendants-amulets of Cypraea panterina marine shells (type 5b), iron knives, sferoidal small
pots, made on the wheel of fine paste (type 1), bitronconic form low bowls worked on the wheel of
fine paste, (type 2b), bowls with three handles (type 4), mugs made on the wheel of fine paste, with
rounded body (type 1) and having the form of pint mugs (type 2), and Roman clay jugs with round
mouth (type 2).
In the layout plan of the necropolis, the two tombs groups occupy separate areas. Tombs of
Group I, representing the first phase of burials are grouped almost exclusively in the south-eastern part
of the necropolis (fig. 6, 1). Tombs of Group II do not appear in the initial sector of funerals. Instead,
they are spread both in the central and periphery sectors of the necropolis (fig. 6, 2).
Taking into account all the elements, the lower chronological limit of the cemetery at
Braviceni is set somewhere in the second third of the IV-th century and the upper chronological limit -
the end of the IV-th century or in the next early century. As for the time duration of the two phases of
the cemetery evolution, taking into account the picture shown in the combinatatorial diagram, it is
considered that Phase I was shorter, ending probably by the invasion of the Huns, and Phase II, which
included a greater number of graves, covered the last part of the IV-th century, possibly the first two
decades of V-th century.
The first case of achondroplasia discovered in the Republic of Moldova. Medieval necropolis from Costești-Gârlea, grave 19. The paper presents the first case of achondroplasia discovered in the Republic of Moldova, in the Medieval... more
The first case of achondroplasia discovered in the Republic of Moldova. Medieval necropolis
from Costești-Gârlea, grave 19. The paper presents the first case of achondroplasia discovered
in the Republic of Moldova, in the Medieval necropolis (14th century) from Costești-Gârlea. The
bones come from a grave discovered by a rescue intervention, on a country road from the southeastern part of the earth fortress. The skeleton was oriented west-east, at a depth of about 0.20 m from the surface of the ground, lying on his back, with the hands placed on the pelvis. On the
northern side, traces of rotten wood were kept. The grave has no inventory. The skeleton, which
comes from a male individual, with a biological age of about 50-55 years, is approximately complete, well preserved. From a morphometric point of view, there are several characteristics that
determine us to assert the presence of achondroplasia – a disproportionate, disharmony-like
form of dwarfism, characterized by shortening of the upper and lower limb bones in contrast
to the normal development of the skull and girdle bones. The neurocranium is brachycephalic,
the forehead has very prominent eminences, the palatine vault has great depth, the mandible
suggests a slight alveolar prognathism, the bones of the upper and lower limbs are robust and
sub-dimensioned compared to those of normal size. The skeletal stature, estimated according to
all complete elements of the limbs, indicates a value of at most 140 cm. At the dentition level, hypodontia and supragingival calculus were identified. Of the ossification anomalies we mention
the sacralization of the L5 vertebra and the manubrio-mesosternal junction. Regarding the daily
activity markers, we mention a slight bone asymmetry, extremely developed muscle insertions,
especially on the clavicles, humeri and femurs, but also a series of enthesopathic changes. From
the range of bone pathologies, porotic hyperostosis and spine osteoarthritis are present.
from Costești-Gârlea, grave 19. The paper presents the first case of achondroplasia discovered
in the Republic of Moldova, in the Medieval necropolis (14th century) from Costești-Gârlea. The
bones come from a grave discovered by a rescue intervention, on a country road from the southeastern part of the earth fortress. The skeleton was oriented west-east, at a depth of about 0.20 m from the surface of the ground, lying on his back, with the hands placed on the pelvis. On the
northern side, traces of rotten wood were kept. The grave has no inventory. The skeleton, which
comes from a male individual, with a biological age of about 50-55 years, is approximately complete, well preserved. From a morphometric point of view, there are several characteristics that
determine us to assert the presence of achondroplasia – a disproportionate, disharmony-like
form of dwarfism, characterized by shortening of the upper and lower limb bones in contrast
to the normal development of the skull and girdle bones. The neurocranium is brachycephalic,
the forehead has very prominent eminences, the palatine vault has great depth, the mandible
suggests a slight alveolar prognathism, the bones of the upper and lower limbs are robust and
sub-dimensioned compared to those of normal size. The skeletal stature, estimated according to
all complete elements of the limbs, indicates a value of at most 140 cm. At the dentition level, hypodontia and supragingival calculus were identified. Of the ossification anomalies we mention
the sacralization of the L5 vertebra and the manubrio-mesosternal junction. Regarding the daily
activity markers, we mention a slight bone asymmetry, extremely developed muscle insertions,
especially on the clavicles, humeri and femurs, but also a series of enthesopathic changes. From
the range of bone pathologies, porotic hyperostosis and spine osteoarthritis are present.
The author publishes an inhumation grave accidentally discovered in 1984 on the territory of Trinca. Data on funeral pit shape and size, orientation and position of the skeleton or location of the inventory pieces in the tomb could not be... more
The author publishes an inhumation grave accidentally discovered in 1984 on the territory of Trinca. Data on
funeral pit shape and size, orientation and position of the skeleton or location of the inventory pieces in the tomb
could not be recorded. Among the inventory items of the complex, there were recovered a Roman clay noggin
decorated with ribs, a mirror fragment of white metal with perforated side handle, provided on one side with a sign
in relief, a bronze wire earring, 12 small spherical beads of glass paste of different colours and a cylindrical bead
of red coral.
Based on typology of inventory, the inhumation grave fromTrinca can be attributed to the sarmatic culture, and
chronologically to the 2nd-3rd centuries AD, or, more exactly, tothesecond half of the 2nd century – the first half of
the 3rd century AD.
funeral pit shape and size, orientation and position of the skeleton or location of the inventory pieces in the tomb
could not be recorded. Among the inventory items of the complex, there were recovered a Roman clay noggin
decorated with ribs, a mirror fragment of white metal with perforated side handle, provided on one side with a sign
in relief, a bronze wire earring, 12 small spherical beads of glass paste of different colours and a cylindrical bead
of red coral.
Based on typology of inventory, the inhumation grave fromTrinca can be attributed to the sarmatic culture, and
chronologically to the 2nd-3rd centuries AD, or, more exactly, tothesecond half of the 2nd century – the first half of
the 3rd century AD.
This article presents some documentation data on medieval and modern history of the village Păpăuţi and of the monastic settlement that existed on its territory, as well as the results of an archaeological rescue intervention at two... more
This article presents some documentation data on medieval and modern history of the village Păpăuţi and of
the monastic settlement that existed on its territory, as well as the results of an archaeological rescue intervention
at two burial tombs discovered by chance in the point La Mănăstire/At Monastary. The documentary information
reveals the period of the village and hermitage of nuns formation, the material situation of the peasants and religious
congregations and their demographic situation. Apart from historical clues, the existence of a monastic center in
Păpăuţi is confirmed by toponymics evidences. Probably, two burial tombs, assigned to two elderly women, belong to the monastery of nuns that existed here in the last part of the XVIII century and in the early part of the XIX century.
Funerals tombs were approximately rectangular, being oriented west-east, and the skeletons were placed on their
back with legs straight and hands put on the chest. To date these extremely important complexes there are wheelmade pottery fragments, some glazed, characteristic of the late Middle Ages and the modern era, discovered in the filling of the tomb pit
the monastic settlement that existed on its territory, as well as the results of an archaeological rescue intervention
at two burial tombs discovered by chance in the point La Mănăstire/At Monastary. The documentary information
reveals the period of the village and hermitage of nuns formation, the material situation of the peasants and religious
congregations and their demographic situation. Apart from historical clues, the existence of a monastic center in
Păpăuţi is confirmed by toponymics evidences. Probably, two burial tombs, assigned to two elderly women, belong to the monastery of nuns that existed here in the last part of the XVIII century and in the early part of the XIX century.
Funerals tombs were approximately rectangular, being oriented west-east, and the skeletons were placed on their
back with legs straight and hands put on the chest. To date these extremely important complexes there are wheelmade pottery fragments, some glazed, characteristic of the late Middle Ages and the modern era, discovered in the filling of the tomb pit
The authors have synthesized a series of documentaries data on the medieval past of the Alcedar village and valued the results of the rescue archaeological research, conducted at several burial tombs belonging to a necropolis discovered... more
The authors have synthesized a series of documentaries data on the medieval past of the Alcedar village and
valued the results of the rescue archaeological research, conducted at several burial tombs belonging to a necropolis discovered in the village area. The historical documents records relate to the village age and its owners, the social
strata and some demographic evidence. A fake act from XIX century, issued in the name of Stefan cel Mare, where
place names of Alcedar are reported, arouses a certain interest. These documentaries facilitate enclosing in general
historical context of six burial tombs discovered in the limits of a rescue survey, executed in the summer of 2016. The skeletons were head west oriented, placed on their back with legs straight and hands located on the chest or on
shoulders. In two graves (nos. 2 and 6) a silver coin from Turkish Abdul-Hamid I (1774-1789) in each were found, on
the bases of which the complexes can be dated in the end of the XVIII – beginning of the XIX centuries.
valued the results of the rescue archaeological research, conducted at several burial tombs belonging to a necropolis discovered in the village area. The historical documents records relate to the village age and its owners, the social
strata and some demographic evidence. A fake act from XIX century, issued in the name of Stefan cel Mare, where
place names of Alcedar are reported, arouses a certain interest. These documentaries facilitate enclosing in general
historical context of six burial tombs discovered in the limits of a rescue survey, executed in the summer of 2016. The skeletons were head west oriented, placed on their back with legs straight and hands located on the chest or on
shoulders. In two graves (nos. 2 and 6) a silver coin from Turkish Abdul-Hamid I (1774-1789) in each were found, on
the bases of which the complexes can be dated in the end of the XVIII – beginning of the XIX centuries.
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V. Vornic, S. Matveev, Problema apartenenței etnice a purtătorilor ”grupului cultural Etulia” în istoriografie, In: Colloquiumul de vară de la Saharna „Descoperiri vechi și abordări noi în arheologia epocii fierului din spațiul tiso-nistrean”, Saharna, 28-31.07 2022, Chișinău-Saharna, 2022, pag. 30.more
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Cercetări arheologice în Republica Moldova : Program. Rezumatele comunicărilor / Ministerul Culturii al Republicii Moldova, Comisia Naţională Arheologică, Agenţia Naţională Arheologică, Muzeul Naţional de Istorie a Moldovei ; editor: Vlad... more
Cercetări arheologice în Republica Moldova : Program. Rezumatele comunicărilor / Ministerul Culturii al Republicii Moldova, Comisia Naţională Arheologică, Agenţia Naţională Arheologică, Muzeul Naţional de Istorie a Moldovei ; editor: Vlad Vornic. – Chișinău : [S. n.], 2024 (Bons Offices). – 122 p. : fig. Campania 2023 : Sesiunea Națională de Rapoarte, 19 aprilie 2024. – 2024. – 122 p. – [90] ex. – ISBN 978-5-36241-208-1.