Studies in the Central Part of the Bolgar Fortified Site (“the Craftsman’s House”)

Abstract

The results of the 2010 salvage and conservation archaeological research in the territory of the Bolgar fortified site, conducted in the construction zone of the so-called "Memorial Plaque" (excavation trench CXLVIII) are presented in the article. The horizons referring to the second half of the pre-Mongol period (the 11th to first third of the 12th century); the earlier (the mid-13th through to the early 14th century), and the later (the mid-14th – early 15th cc.) Golden Horde periods have been recorded on the site. A few constructions referring to different periods have been opened, which can probably be regarded as the remnants of a 14th-century homestead. Remnants of a small production furnace for melting non-ferrous metals and a kiln have been identified. Traces of bone-carving production have been found. Numerous fragments of pottery dated to the Golden Horde period have been revealed. Of particular interest is a Celadon dish with hieroglyphic inscription, probably a Korean-made one. The finds of copper and silver coins date from the mid- to the second half of 14th century.

Keywords

• the Middle Volga river region
• the Middle Ages
• Bolgar fortified site
• pre-Mongol period
• Golden Horde period
• salvage and conservation archaeological research
• craftsman’s homestead