Archaeobotanical Research at Left-Bank Samosdelka Settlement

Abstract

The article introduces into scientific discourse the results of archaebotanical research conducted in 2017 at Left-Bank Samosdelka settlement, which is a part of the archaeological complex of Samosdelka fortified settlement. The samples that were involved in the study belong to two periods – the 9th-10th centuries and the 13th century. As a result of the analysis, 673 plant macrofossils and 74 whole and fragmented arthropod bodies were discovered. The botanical finds are represented by two preservation types: carbonized and mineralized. The samples have a high mineralization degree (2/3 of the collection). The similarity of these features between Left Bank settlement and the Samosdelka fortified settlement indicates the unity of cultural layer formation conditions and the unity of soil development processes. Samosdelka fortified settlement and Left Bank settlement are viewed as a single settlement, which at a certain historical stage had a left-bank and a right-bank parts. The main fruit plant in this area is mulberry (Morus sp). Also, 44 mineralized seeds of cultivated grape (Vitis vinifera) were found in the area. The pumpkin family (Cucurbitaceae) is poorly represented in this collection. Millet grains (Panicum miliaceum) and a single seed of cultivated hemp (Cannabis sp.) were discovered for the first time at the monuments in the vicinity of Samosdelka fortified settlement. A total of 76 seeds of wild and weed species were recorded. A lower saturation of the layer with carbonized macrofossils is observed, as compared to the main part of the fortified settlement, indicating a lesser settlement activity, which is directly related to either the low population density or the short chronological period of development of this territory. This is also evidenced by the low thickness of the cultural layer and the sparseness of the pits. However, residents of Left Bank settlement had access to the same basic types of cereals and fruits as those of the fortified settlement.