Amenities and Sanitation in Golden Horde Cities

Abstract

The paper discusses various aspects of the urban amenities of Golden Horde cities. Archaeological evidence suggests that they had wide streets and large paved squares, often decorated with fountains. The water supply system had different structures, depending on the natural and climatic conditions. In Volga Bolgaria, water was extracted from wells, and in the steppe zone there was a system of underground galleries – karezes, surface canals – arycs, and reservoirs - hauzes. Wastewater was removed using drainage systems and sewers. An important role was played by sanitary facilities - public and private bathhouses, garbage pits and toilets. Washbasins – tashnau and baths were arranged in the houses. The cities in the Golden Horde were well organized and developed for the Middle Ages.

Keywords

• archaeology
• golden horde
• cities
• amenities
• streets
• squares
• fountains
• water supply
• sanitation
• bathhouses
• cesspools