Pages: 131-148 | DOI: https://doi.org/10.55086/sp263131148

The article explores children’s burials from the 1st—2nd century AD in Late Scythian settlements of the Northwestern Crimea, such as Kalos Limen, Tarpanchi, and Belyaus. The researcher has identified two main burial types: in fragmented amphorae and soil pits localized under floors and walls of rooms. The chronology shows a shift in the rite, from pit burials in the second half of the first century BC to vessel burials by the end of the 1st century BC — 1st century AD. Comparisons with sites in the Lower Volga region, like Olbia, Kozyrka, Nikony, suggest that part of the Late Scythian population may have migrated. Possible origins of the tradition include Hellenic cultural influence, links to fertility cults, and potential Thracian connections. The study concludes that the rite had a sacred significance and played a role in the ethnocultural dynamics of the Northern Black Sea region.

Keywords: Northern Black Sea region, Northwestern Crimea, antiquity, Roman times, Late Scythian culture, ancient settlements, children’s burials

Information about authors:

Konstantin Korshun (Simferopol, Crimea). Institute of Archaeology of Crimea of the Russian Academy of Sciences. Academician Vernadsky Ave., 2, Simferopol, 295007, Crimea
E-mail: [email protected]
ORCID: 0009-0000-2289-1068