Complex of flint tools from Zaliznichnoe site (based on materials collected in 1970)

Abstract

The Zaliznichnoe site was discovered by M. Agbunov in 1970. The collection of the surface finds (692 pieces), published by V.N. Stanko and L.V. Subbotin in 1979, was dated to the Mesolithic epoch and attributed to the Grebeniky archaeological culture. In 1998-2000, the excavations of the site were continued. As a result, the amount of flint collection increased to 7711 pieces. On the basis of the examined flint assemblage, the interaction of bearers of two cultural traditions (Grebeniky and Kukrek) on this site was presumed (E. Smyntyna). The article examines the flint assemblage from the site (505 surface finds in 1970), previously considered as lost. As a result of examination of these surface finds, the items of the later archaeological epochs (e.g. Eneolithic) were distinguished, while its comparison with the similar materials from sites of the region enables to date it to the later Neolithic epoch.

Keywords

• Northwestern Pontic Region
• Mesolithic
• Neolithic