An medieval grave near the village Hîrtopul Mare Cover Image

Средневековое погребение у с. Хыртопул Маре
An medieval grave near the village Hîrtopul Mare

Author(s): Ivan Vlasenko, Veaceslav Bicbaev
Subject(s): Archaeology
Published by: Muzeul Naţional de Istorie a Moldovei
Keywords: Hîrtopul Mare; Getae fortress; medieval grave; burial inventory

Summary/Abstract: In the summer of 2008 as part of the rescue excavations near the village Hârtopul Mare, Criuleni district, was investigated a flat grave done by inhumation from the 13th-14th centuries. The burial was discovered in the immediate vicinity of the place called by the local inhabitants „La Şanţ” where were attested a Getae fortress and a medieval settlement from the 11th-12th centuries.In a pit of a rectangular shape with rounded corners, at the depth of 0,5 m has been investigated the remains of an individual of 20-25 years old, east-north-east head oriented, laying on the back, with the legs and right hand stretched, the hand of the left arm placed on the basin bones. At the right temple was found a bronze earring question mark shaped, and between the bones of the left arm and the bones of the thorax had an iron handle with a flint piece. Under the left knee was discovered an iron arrow point, and near the right leg, under the knee – a battle axe and the remains of a closure with iron tag. The analysis of the funerary rite features and inventory places the grave in the chronological diapason of the 13th-14th centuries and attributes it to the late nomads. It finds analogies on the territory of the Republic of Moldova among the flat graves from Hansca-Limbari and Mateuţi-Şcoala nouă. The grave is part probably of a flat necropolis which’s presence near the fortress „La Şanţ” has been pointed out by the inhabitants of the village and by the researchers.

  • Issue Year: III/2009
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 313-321
  • Page Count: 9
  • Language: Russian