- Near Eastern Archaeology, Sasanian Iran, Archaeology of Caucasus, Sasanian Archaeology, Islamic pottery, Islamic Archaeology, and 16 moreSasanian Pottery, Caucasian Albania, Early Islamic Archaeology, Zoroastrianism, Iranian Archaeology, Sasanian History, Sasanian art, Sasanian Empire, Iranian Studies, Eurasian Nomads, Sarmatians, Alans, Sasanian Rock Reliefs, Caucasian Archaeology, Caucasus, and Silk Road Studies(Sasanian Pottery, Caucasian Albania, Early Islamic Archaeology, Zoroastrianism, Iranian Archaeology, Sasanian History, Sasanian art, Sasanian Empire, Iranian Studies, Eurasian Nomads, Sarmatians, Alans, Sasanian Rock Reliefs, Caucasian Archaeology, Caucasus, and Silk Road Studies)edit
Short report about rescue excavations of housing and household complex of Pre-Mongol period on the territory of the medieval shahristan of Derbent (Arab. Bab al-abwab, Turk. Demir-kapy)
Research Interests:
Preliminary report about rescue excavations on the territory of Medieval shahristan of Derbent (Arab. Bab al-abwab, Turk. Demir-kapy)
Research Interests:
Preliminary report about extensive archaeological excavations along the northern city wall of Derbent (MPers. Darband, Arab. Bab al-abwab)
Research Interests:
About the three transverse walls of Derbent, dividing the territory of the city into four parts and providing additional protection for the Derbent passage and the strategically important city erected here in the late 560s. AD
Research Interests:
About the finds of bronze objects of the last centuries A.D. in Mountain Dagestan
Research Interests:
The article focuses on the results of the archeological study, conducted on the ruins of the Fort 5, located in the terri-tory of the medieval settlement Pirmeshki. The work was carried out in the context of the research of the... more
The article focuses on the results of the archeological study, conducted on the ruins of the Fort 5, located in the terri-tory of the medieval settlement Pirmeshki. The work was carried out in the context of the research of the fortification system Dag-bary, which had been a part of the Derbent defensive complex, erected during the reign of shahanshah Khosrov I Anushirvan (531–579) in the late 560s’. Judging by the remains of the walls, the fort had the internal dimensions of around 13,2 by 25–25,1 m with a wall thickness of 2 m. These parameters are very similar to the fort dimensions of the Mountain wall, which have better preserved. The revealed remains of the walls have the same constructive features as other fortifications of the Derbent defensive complex – double-shelled dry masonry of slabs with backfilling of lime mortar. The complex of ceramic ware, presented in the cultural layers of the dig, belongs to the 6th – early 13th c. It can be assumed that the settlement and the forts No. 4 and No. 5 in it ceased to exist in the period of the Mongol invasion to Dagestan of Jebe and Subutai in 1222, the intervention of Khwarazm-shah Jalal ad-Din in 1225–1226 and later the campaign of Bukdai in 1239. The data from written sources, and, mainly, Adam Olearius’ information, who visited Derbent in 1638, testifies to the destruction of numerous strongholds of the Mountain wall by the XVII c.
Research Interests:
In 2019, a joint archaeological expedition comprising the Scientific and Production Center for Tourism and Local Lore, the Institute of History, Archeology, and Ethnography of the Dagestan Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of... more
In 2019, a joint archaeological expedition comprising the Scientific and Production Center for Tourism and Local Lore, the Institute of History, Archeology, and Ethnography of the Dagestan Federal Research Center of the Russian Academy of Sciences, and the Institute of Archaeology of the Russian Academy of Sciences conducted a rescue excavation of the solitary kurgan Uchkent IV. Situated within the reconstruction zone of the Grozny-Baku oil pipeline in the Kumtorkala district of the Republic of Dagestan. The excavation uncovered an outer stone crescent-shaped pavement, a stone arrangement surrounding and covering Burial
1, which was enclosed by a cromlech, as well as two burials within stone tombs (designated as Burials 1 and 2). The preserved funeral rites and burial artifacts enabled us to date the principal burial, Burial 1, and the
construction of the kurgan to the Middle Bronze Age. Burial 2 also corresponds to the Middle Bronze Age, but due to the nearly complete absence of burial artifacts, its precise chronology remains uncertain. Kurgan Uchkent IV shares remarkable parallels with the Taular-gol kurgans in Caspian Dagestan, suggesting the formation of a single chronological and cultural group associated with the Sulak (Prisulak) culture. Of particular interest are the architectural elements and funerary practices revealed at the kurgan. These include a combination of solar (cromlech) and lunar pavements encircling the central burial in a tomb enclosed by a dense stone structure that simulates a rounded embankment. Notably, the earliest instances of similar stone and earthen pavements in the Caucasus can be traced back to the Eneolithic period, found in burial mounds associated with the Maykop cultural and historical community of the Early Bronze Age, as well as in the kurgans of the Middle Bronze Age. These solar-lunar constructions likely reflect religious beliefs about life and death, embodying cosmogonic binary concepts that are intertwined with archaic myths concerning the Sun and the Moon.
1, which was enclosed by a cromlech, as well as two burials within stone tombs (designated as Burials 1 and 2). The preserved funeral rites and burial artifacts enabled us to date the principal burial, Burial 1, and the
construction of the kurgan to the Middle Bronze Age. Burial 2 also corresponds to the Middle Bronze Age, but due to the nearly complete absence of burial artifacts, its precise chronology remains uncertain. Kurgan Uchkent IV shares remarkable parallels with the Taular-gol kurgans in Caspian Dagestan, suggesting the formation of a single chronological and cultural group associated with the Sulak (Prisulak) culture. Of particular interest are the architectural elements and funerary practices revealed at the kurgan. These include a combination of solar (cromlech) and lunar pavements encircling the central burial in a tomb enclosed by a dense stone structure that simulates a rounded embankment. Notably, the earliest instances of similar stone and earthen pavements in the Caucasus can be traced back to the Eneolithic period, found in burial mounds associated with the Maykop cultural and historical community of the Early Bronze Age, as well as in the kurgans of the Middle Bronze Age. These solar-lunar constructions likely reflect religious beliefs about life and death, embodying cosmogonic binary concepts that are intertwined with archaic myths concerning the Sun and the Moon.
Research Interests:
The article examines the issue of administrative and political connections between two neighboring historical regions, Caucasian Albania (Aran) and Adurbadagan, which formed part of the Sasanian Iran during the reign of Shahanshah Khosrow... more
The article examines the issue of administrative and political connections between two neighboring historical regions, Caucasian Albania (Aran) and Adurbadagan, which formed part of the Sasanian Iran during the reign of Shahanshah Khosrow I Anushirvan as a result of military and administrative reforms of the Adurbadagan region (kust) headed by the commander (spahbed). The Adurbadagan kust included both the Adurbadagan province (shahr) itself and Albania/Aran, along with other provinces of the South Caucasus. The information from the Syriac “Life of Gregory” and the seals of the spahbeds of Adurbadagan indicate a successive, possibly hereditary, military-administrative governance by representatives of the House of Mihran over the Adurbadagan kust and the Caucasian provinces. This may explain the rise of the Mihranids to power in Aran after the failed rebellion of Bahram Chobin (590–591), who was also a representative of the Mihran family. The House of Mihran maintained their positions in Adurbadagan and in the Caucasus throughout the 6th century, during the reigns of shahanshahs Kavad I, Khosrow I, and Hormizd IV. It can be assumed that this was due to the support of the House of Mihran by the Sasanians, particularly by Kavad I, during their struggle against the House of Karen during challenging times for the state. The inclusion of Albania/Aran in the Adurbadagan kust
is clearly confirmed by twenty Middle Persian inscriptions from Derbent, composed on behalf of Darius, the chief fiscal officer (amargar) of Adurbadagan.
is clearly confirmed by twenty Middle Persian inscriptions from Derbent, composed on behalf of Darius, the chief fiscal officer (amargar) of Adurbadagan.
Research Interests:
В статье рассматривается вопрос административно-политических связей двух соседних исторических областей – Кавказской Албании (Арана) и Адурбадагана, образование в составе Сасанидского Ирана в правление шаханшаха Хосрова I Ануширвана в... more
В статье рассматривается вопрос административно-политических связей двух соседних исторических областей – Кавказской Албании (Арана) и Адурбадагана, образование в составе Сасанидского Ирана
в правление шаханшаха Хосрова I Ануширвана в результате военно-административных реформ области-куста Адурбадаган во главе со спахбедом. В состав куста Адурбадаган были включены как собственно провинция-шахр Адурбадаган, так и Албания-Аран вместе с другими провинциями Южного Кавказа. Информация сирийского «Жития Григора» и печати спахбедов Адурбадагана, как видится, свидетельствуют о преемственном, вероятно, наследственном, военно-административном управлении представителями дома Михран кустом Адурбадаган и кавказскими провинциями. Это может объяснять приход Михранидов к власти в Аране после неудачного восстания Бахрама Чубина (590–591), также являвшегося представителем рода Михран. Дом Михран сохранял
свои позиции в Адурбадагане и на Кавказе на протяжении всего VI века – в правление шаханшахов Кавада I, Хосрова I, Хормизда IV. Можно полагать, что это было связано с поддержкой домом Михран Сасанидов в лице Кавада I в его противостоянии с домом Карен в трудные для государства времена. Вхождение Албании-Арана в состав куста Адурбадаган ясно подтверждается 20 среднеперсидскими надписями Дербента, составленными от имени амаргара Адурбадагана Дариуша.
в правление шаханшаха Хосрова I Ануширвана в результате военно-административных реформ области-куста Адурбадаган во главе со спахбедом. В состав куста Адурбадаган были включены как собственно провинция-шахр Адурбадаган, так и Албания-Аран вместе с другими провинциями Южного Кавказа. Информация сирийского «Жития Григора» и печати спахбедов Адурбадагана, как видится, свидетельствуют о преемственном, вероятно, наследственном, военно-административном управлении представителями дома Михран кустом Адурбадаган и кавказскими провинциями. Это может объяснять приход Михранидов к власти в Аране после неудачного восстания Бахрама Чубина (590–591), также являвшегося представителем рода Михран. Дом Михран сохранял
свои позиции в Адурбадагане и на Кавказе на протяжении всего VI века – в правление шаханшахов Кавада I, Хосрова I, Хормизда IV. Можно полагать, что это было связано с поддержкой домом Михран Сасанидов в лице Кавада I в его противостоянии с домом Карен в трудные для государства времена. Вхождение Албании-Арана в состав куста Адурбадаган ясно подтверждается 20 среднеперсидскими надписями Дербента, составленными от имени амаргара Адурбадагана Дариуша.
Research Interests:
During rescue excavations in Derbent in 2014, a Muslim ritual complex connected with a water supply system and apparently serving for ritual washing and cleansing was revealed outside the medieval shahristan and near the north defensive... more
During rescue excavations in Derbent in 2014, a Muslim ritual complex connected with a water supply system and apparently serving for ritual washing and cleansing was revealed outside the medieval shahristan and near the north defensive wall of the city. In addition to numerous and diverse finds, 57 coins were found, which is obviously due to the nature of the place where coins were left as ‘offerings’ in fulfillment of the vow.
The absolute majority of identified coins (48 items) represent two chronological groups.
The early chronological group (12 items) consists of Umayyad and Abbasid fulus of the 8th century, including the mint of Bab al-abwab (Derbent) and the fulus of the type of the Arran governor Hassan b. Kakhtaba (770—775). Most coins of this group (10 items) were found in a small area (ca. 2 sq. m) in the same stratigraphic position fixing the level of the ancient day surface.
The late chronological group (36 items) includes copper dirhams of Bab al-abwab Sulamids mainly of the mid-12th c. — late 12th c. (13 items), Akhar malik Mahmud b. Pishkin (1211—1226) (7 items), Ildegizids during the reign of Caliph al-Nasir (1180—1225) (8 coins), and Aq Sunqurids (1189—1207) (8 items), including a coin with the name of Ildegizid atabek Kizil Arslan (1186—1191). Eighteen coins of this group were also found in a small area (ca. 4 sq. m) in the same stratigraphic position as those 10 coins of the early group mentioned above.
The whole archaeological assemblage, including coins, indicate that the religious object ceased its functioning in direct association with the invasion of the Mongols led by Jebe and Subutai, the subsequent invasion of Khwarazmshah Jalal ad-Din in the Caucasus, and the conquest of Derbent by Bukdai, a commander of Möngke Khan, in 1239.
The absolute majority of identified coins (48 items) represent two chronological groups.
The early chronological group (12 items) consists of Umayyad and Abbasid fulus of the 8th century, including the mint of Bab al-abwab (Derbent) and the fulus of the type of the Arran governor Hassan b. Kakhtaba (770—775). Most coins of this group (10 items) were found in a small area (ca. 2 sq. m) in the same stratigraphic position fixing the level of the ancient day surface.
The late chronological group (36 items) includes copper dirhams of Bab al-abwab Sulamids mainly of the mid-12th c. — late 12th c. (13 items), Akhar malik Mahmud b. Pishkin (1211—1226) (7 items), Ildegizids during the reign of Caliph al-Nasir (1180—1225) (8 coins), and Aq Sunqurids (1189—1207) (8 items), including a coin with the name of Ildegizid atabek Kizil Arslan (1186—1191). Eighteen coins of this group were also found in a small area (ca. 4 sq. m) in the same stratigraphic position as those 10 coins of the early group mentioned above.
The whole archaeological assemblage, including coins, indicate that the religious object ceased its functioning in direct association with the invasion of the Mongols led by Jebe and Subutai, the subsequent invasion of Khwarazmshah Jalal ad-Din in the Caucasus, and the conquest of Derbent by Bukdai, a commander of Möngke Khan, in 1239.
Research Interests:
The article deals with the localization of the Bilistan fortress, which, according to the authoritative Arab historian Ibn A’tham al-Kufi (d. 926), was besieged by Arab troops led by the governor of Arminiyya Marwan ibn Muhammad in 120 AH... more
The article deals with the localization of the Bilistan fortress, which, according to the authoritative Arab historian Ibn A’tham al-Kufi (d. 926), was besieged by Arab troops led by the governor of Arminiyya Marwan ibn Muhammad in 120 AH / 738 CE during the conquest campaigns in the East Caucasus and in which the king of Lakz Arbis ibn Basbas took refuge. According to al-Kufi’s Kitāb al-futūḥ (The Book of Conquests), this fortified settlement was located in the Land of Lakz in the middle reaches of the Samur River. In 2019, a hypothesis based on a linguistic-etymological and toponymic analysis was proposed by one of the authors of this article, according to which this historically attested site could be located in the middle reaches of the Samur River, in the area of the modern-day village of Kuysun. Discovered here in 2023, a settlement with a fortified citadel as well as the ceramic material collected there enable the dating of the site
to the 6th — 8th century. Hence, there is a strong argument for localizing the Bilistan fortress exactly where the recently discovered Kuysun settlement is situated.
to the 6th — 8th century. Hence, there is a strong argument for localizing the Bilistan fortress exactly where the recently discovered Kuysun settlement is situated.
Research Interests:
Until recently, 32 Middle Persian inscriptions documenting the construction of the Derbent defensive complex and dating from the very end of the 560s. AD were known. Now the corpus of the Middle Persian inscriptions of Derbent has been... more
Until recently, 32 Middle Persian inscriptions documenting the construction of the Derbent defensive complex and dating from the very end of the 560s. AD were known. Now the corpus of the Middle Persian inscriptions of Derbent has been replenished with three more inscriptions – No. 33, 34 and 35, opened by the authors in 2016, 2021 and 2022, respectively. Inscription No. 33 is located between towers No. 18 and
No. 19 of the northern city defensive wall in the central part of the curtain. It has poor preservation. But, nevertheless, its text is restored from the preserved fragments of letters and by analogy with other inscriptions similar in content. The inscription is three-line, vertical. Reconstructible text: [Da]r[iuš ī] Ā[durbādagān] ām[ārgar]. Inscription No. 34 is located between towers No. 14 and No. 15 of the northern wall. The inscription is vertical, three-line, separate letters and parts of letters are preserved, and its text is reconstructed according to the surviving letters and analogies with other inscriptions. Its text reads: Dari[u]š ī [Ādurbādag]ān ām[ā] rgar. Inscription No. 35 is located on tower No. 36 of the north wall. The inscription is also vertical, three-line, and has satisfactory preservation and similar content. The inscriptions are composed on behalf of āmārgar – a high official, chief financier and tax inspector of the vast Adurbadagan area, which during the reign of shahanshah Khosrow I Anushirvan (531-579) included not only Adurbadagan proper, but all the Caucasian possessions of Sasanian Iran up to Derbent. The newly discovered inscriptions belong to the group 1, subgroup b of the Middle Persian inscriptions of Derbent, which represents the inscriptions of āmārgar Dariuš. Now 20 (out of 35) inscriptions compiled on his behalf are already known, and all of them are carved on the northern wall of the city, where a total of 25 inscriptions are located.
No. 19 of the northern city defensive wall in the central part of the curtain. It has poor preservation. But, nevertheless, its text is restored from the preserved fragments of letters and by analogy with other inscriptions similar in content. The inscription is three-line, vertical. Reconstructible text: [Da]r[iuš ī] Ā[durbādagān] ām[ārgar]. Inscription No. 34 is located between towers No. 14 and No. 15 of the northern wall. The inscription is vertical, three-line, separate letters and parts of letters are preserved, and its text is reconstructed according to the surviving letters and analogies with other inscriptions. Its text reads: Dari[u]š ī [Ādurbādag]ān ām[ā] rgar. Inscription No. 35 is located on tower No. 36 of the north wall. The inscription is also vertical, three-line, and has satisfactory preservation and similar content. The inscriptions are composed on behalf of āmārgar – a high official, chief financier and tax inspector of the vast Adurbadagan area, which during the reign of shahanshah Khosrow I Anushirvan (531-579) included not only Adurbadagan proper, but all the Caucasian possessions of Sasanian Iran up to Derbent. The newly discovered inscriptions belong to the group 1, subgroup b of the Middle Persian inscriptions of Derbent, which represents the inscriptions of āmārgar Dariuš. Now 20 (out of 35) inscriptions compiled on his behalf are already known, and all of them are carved on the northern wall of the city, where a total of 25 inscriptions are located.
Research Interests:
Sasanian period in the history of Caucasian Albania is characterized by its close interaction with Iran in the religious and ideological sphere, which took place within the framework of political contacts and has been marked since the... more
Sasanian period in the history of Caucasian Albania is characterized by its close interaction with Iran in the religious and ideological sphere, which took place within the framework of political contacts and has been marked since the first decades of the establishment of the Sasanian dynasty in Iran. After the signing of the Edict of Milan (AD 313), which proclaimed religious tolerance in the territory of the Roman Empire and was an important step towards the transformation of Christianity into the official religion of the Empire, Armenia, and then Iberia and Albania declared Christianity as their state religion, and this was regarded by Iran as their political and ideological subordination to Rome. Certain periods in the history of Albania are characterized by a tough confrontation between two religious systems. But at the same time, the main trend in the relationship between Christianity and Zoroastrianism in the East Caucasus
was characterized by relative tolerance and was due to the geopolitical significance of the region, Iran’s internal policy, the emerging diplomatic situation and other factors.
was characterized by relative tolerance and was due to the geopolitical significance of the region, Iran’s internal policy, the emerging diplomatic situation and other factors.
Research Interests:
In 1964 and 1985 in the south of Dagestan, two treasures which included Hellenistic coins were found. The first consisted of several dozen Seleucid coins, of which only two bronze coins of Antiochus IV, the so-called “Egyptianizing”... more
In 1964 and 1985 in the south of Dagestan, two treasures which included Hellenistic coins were found. The first consisted of several dozen Seleucid coins, of which only two bronze coins of Antiochus IV, the so-called “Egyptianizing” series, have survived. The second hoard included bronze Ptolemaic coins of the 6c and 6e series, issued in the first third of the 2nd century BC and related to the same type: Zeus-Ammon / two eagles perched side-by-side on two thunderbolts with a double cornucopiae in the left field. The most probable reason why Seleucid and Ptolemaic bronze coins ended up in Sharakun was the participation of their owners in trade along the Caspian waterway.
Apparently, their masters arrived from Antioch on the Orontes and Alexandria to Sharakun, intending to follow the Caspian Sea and up the Oxus to Greco-Bactria. The bronze coins they had there would not only be absolutely useless, but also very burdensome. Therefore, merchants could either leave them with a reliable person in the Sharakun settlement, or bury them in a secluded place to pick them up on the way back. However, they, apparently, were not destined to return to Sharakun. After this became clear, the Ptolemaic coins, which were of interest to local residents only for their weight, turned out to be part of the foundry hoard. For us, both Sharakun treasures are the most valuable evidence, proving not only the very existence of the Caspian waterway, but also the implementation of trade contacts between Central Asia and the Eastern Mediterranean.
Apparently, their masters arrived from Antioch on the Orontes and Alexandria to Sharakun, intending to follow the Caspian Sea and up the Oxus to Greco-Bactria. The bronze coins they had there would not only be absolutely useless, but also very burdensome. Therefore, merchants could either leave them with a reliable person in the Sharakun settlement, or bury them in a secluded place to pick them up on the way back. However, they, apparently, were not destined to return to Sharakun. After this became clear, the Ptolemaic coins, which were of interest to local residents only for their weight, turned out to be part of the foundry hoard. For us, both Sharakun treasures are the most valuable evidence, proving not only the very existence of the Caspian waterway, but also the implementation of trade contacts between Central Asia and the Eastern Mediterranean.
Research Interests:
The paper examines the results of the excavations of the Derbent settlement, carried out in the 2019 by the Derbent archaeological expedition, which had begun in 2012. The settlement preceded the construction of the Derbent defensive... more
The paper examines the results of the excavations of the Derbent settlement, carried out in the 2019 by the Derbent archaeological expedition, which had begun in 2012. The settlement preceded the construction of the Derbent defensive complex in the late 560s and was gradually abandoned after the construction of a new city, which received a new name Derbent (Darband).
The work was carried out in the southern sector of the XXV excavation, where cultural strata dating back to the 5th-6th centuries, associated economic and construction remains (Rooms 7, 8, 9, 10, 11), medieval Muslim burials (Burials 31- 37), let into the cultural layer of the settlement. An open complex of residential and utility buildings, including 11 rooms, dates back to the 5th century AD based on chronological indicators (belt buckles, fibulae) and other archaeological finds (including Sasanian ceramics). The authors believe that this complex ceased to exist during the period of turbulent military and political events of the middle of the 5th century or the early 6th century, namely during the anti-Sasanian uprising of 450-451 or the Iranian-Savir war of 503-508. The obtained materials shed light on the issues of historical topography and planning, stratigraphy and chronology, characterize the material culture, economy and life of the population of the Derbent settlement, identified with the city-fortress Chor/Chol, known to ancient Armenian, Georgian, Syrian, early Byzantine and Arab authors and speakers as an important administrative-political,
military-strategic and religious center of the Eastern Caucasus.
The work was carried out in the southern sector of the XXV excavation, where cultural strata dating back to the 5th-6th centuries, associated economic and construction remains (Rooms 7, 8, 9, 10, 11), medieval Muslim burials (Burials 31- 37), let into the cultural layer of the settlement. An open complex of residential and utility buildings, including 11 rooms, dates back to the 5th century AD based on chronological indicators (belt buckles, fibulae) and other archaeological finds (including Sasanian ceramics). The authors believe that this complex ceased to exist during the period of turbulent military and political events of the middle of the 5th century or the early 6th century, namely during the anti-Sasanian uprising of 450-451 or the Iranian-Savir war of 503-508. The obtained materials shed light on the issues of historical topography and planning, stratigraphy and chronology, characterize the material culture, economy and life of the population of the Derbent settlement, identified with the city-fortress Chor/Chol, known to ancient Armenian, Georgian, Syrian, early Byzantine and Arab authors and speakers as an important administrative-political,
military-strategic and religious center of the Eastern Caucasus.
Research Interests:
Article is devoted to studing of Harun al-Rashid's activity in Bab al-abwab (Derbent) according to Darband-nama and in the light of the Arab Cufi inscription of 176 A.H. discovered near Derbent in 2001.
Research Interests:
В 2020 г. в ходе охранно-спасательных археологических наблюдений в Дербенте был выявлен мусульманский могильник, представляющий обособленный участок некогда обширного средневекового городского некрополя Дербента, располагавшегося за... more
В 2020 г. в ходе охранно-спасательных археологических наблюдений в Дербенте был выявлен мусульманский могильник, представляющий обособленный участок некогда обширного средневекового городского некрополя Дербента, располагавшегося за пределами архитектурного выделенного шахристана. Данный участок насчитывает свыше 80 саркофагообразных надмогильных памятников, которые условно именуются по их форме «саркофаги» и датируются последней третью XI—XII вв. Среди них представлен единственный саркофаг, на южной продольной боковой стороне которого имеется врезная надпись — эпитафия, выполненная на арабском языке почерком куфи. Текст ее гласит: «Это могила Мухаммада, лудильщика. Да будет над ним милость Аллаха!».Памятник представляет редкий образец саркофагообразных надмогильных памятников с надписью. Согласно эпитафии, погребенный являлся лудильщиком и эта информация расширяет круг ремесленных специальностей, существовавших в Дербенте XI—XII вв., и служит указанием на специализацию ремесленного...
Research Interests:
<jats:p>Since the early 4th century, ancient Armenian authors (P'awstos Buzand, Movsēs Xorenac'i, Agat'angełos, Movsēs Dasxuranc'i, the Ašxarac'oyc) begin to mention the Land of the Mazk'ut' (Arm. ašharh... more
<jats:p>Since the early 4th century, ancient Armenian authors (P'awstos Buzand, Movsēs Xorenac'i, Agat'angełos, Movsēs Dasxuranc'i, the Ašxarac'oyc) begin to mention the Land of the Mazk'ut' (Arm. ašharh Mazk't'acʻ), located in the East Caucasus. The Sarmato-Alan burial mounds of plain Daghestan of the 3rd–5th centuries (Lvov, Palasa-Syrt, etc.) are attributed to this ethnic community. In 216 AD these tribes invaded Armenia through the Derbent pass (Arm. durn Čoray) (Khorenatsi 2,65), and took part in the Armenian-Iranian war in the middle of the 3rd century. At the beginning of the 4th century the post of "bdeašx from the Mazk'ut's" (Agatangełos. 874) appears in administrative apparatus of Armenia, which shows the military and strategic value of the Land of Mazk'ut's. At the same time, the family dynastic ties are apparently established between the ruling houses of Armenia and the kingdom of the Mazk'ut' (Ašxen, Ašxadar, Trdat, Sanesan, Xosrow). The importance of this kingdom can be seen by the events of the 330s'—the struggle for the Armenian throne after the king Trdat's death in c. 330 AD, in which the different tribes led by Sanesan, the King of the Mazk'ut', took active part. The discontinuance of the Mazk'ut' burial mounds in the middle of the 5th century might be explained, on the one hand, by the possible annexation of the Mazk'ut' by the Huns during the invasion of Transcaucasia and the seizure of the Derbent pass in circa 440 AD; on the other hand, by the subsequent forceful displacement of the Mazk'ut's and the Huns from the territory to the south of Derbent along with the strengthening of Sasanian Iran in the East Caucasus in the 440s' and regain of control over the Derbent pass, which can be traced both in written sources (Ełishe, History of Karka de Beth Selok) and fortification monuments (mud-brick fortifications of Derbent and Torpakh-kala).</jats:p>
Research Interests:
The article describes the historical periods of development two closely related fields of activity in Daghestan (Russia) – local history and museology. Within each period, the authors highlight the stages of the local history and museum... more
The article describes the historical periods of development two closely related fields of activity in Daghestan (Russia) – local history and museology. Within each period, the authors highlight the stages of the local history and museum initiative of the local intellectuals and educators. The spatio-temporal dynamics of the network of local history museums in the context of the republic’s municipalities is analysed. The features of the evolution of local lore and museum affairs are revealed in the light of the prospects for the popularisation of the rich natural and cultural heritage of the “Country of the Mountains”. The issues surrounding the formation of effective museum and tourist clusters on this territory are discussed.
Research Interests:
As a result of studies conducted in the city of Derbent, it is established that its monumental fortification structures erected at the end of the 560s AD underwent numerous strong seismic shocks during their existence. The number and... more
As a result of studies conducted in the city of Derbent, it is established that its monumental fortification structures erected at the end of the 560s AD underwent numerous strong seismic shocks during their existence. The number and approximate ages of the strong seismic events that affected Derbent throughout its history are determined by the age of the deformed stone masonry. Five episodes of seismogenic destructions are identified. Clockwise rotations around the vertical axis along the interblock joints at the segment of the Sasanian masonry of the curtain wall and the tower of the southern wall of the citadel are noted to occur in late Sasanian and early Arab times (from the 6th century to the beginning of the 8th century). They were large in value and caused by seismic action. Numerous cases of rebuilding and relaying in the defensive walls of the city are also revealed. The building works during the Arab period, especially in the 8th century, described in written sources, wer...
Research Interests:
The results of the latest research on active faults in Southern Dagestan, in the area of Derbent, using the paleoseismological and archeoseismological methods are highlighted. The zone of seismogenerating fault—the Derbent segment of the... more
The results of the latest research on active faults in Southern Dagestan, in the area of Derbent, using the paleoseismological and archeoseismological methods are highlighted. The zone of seismogenerating fault—the Derbent segment of the regional tectonic boundary between the mountain structure of the Greater Caucasus and the North Caucasian foredeep—is revealed. The last seismotectonic slip along the fault due to a strong earthquake led to the displacement of the early medieval city wall of Derbent. The magnitude of this event was M ≈ 7, and, therefore, the seismic shaking intensity was I0 ≥ IX. This seismic event occurred, most likely, in the 10th century AD.
Research Interests:
A significant political influence of Sasanian Iran on Caucasian Albania gives reasons to consider the spread of the Middle Persian language and writing among the Albanian nobility and authorities. This process contributed by the existence... more
A significant political influence of Sasanian Iran on Caucasian Albania gives reasons to consider the spread of the Middle Persian language and writing among the Albanian nobility and authorities. This process contributed by the existence of close dynastic ties between the Arsacids of Albania and the Sasanian royal family at least since from the reign of King Urnayr (ca. 350–375) up the abolition of Albanian kingdom at the beginning of the 6th century. Written sources provide the correspondence of the rulers of Albania, Armenia, Iberia with the Sasanians and the written decrees of the shāhanshāhs sent to the Transcaucasian provinces of Iran, which indirectly indicates the spread of the Middle Persian language and writing here. Currently, there are three known unique gem-seals that date back to the end of the 4th and the beginning of the 6th century and belonged to the representatives of higher secular and church authorities. These are the seals of the King of Albania Aswahen, Crown ...
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
The article presents some results of an archaeological researches conducted at the northern city wall in the seaside part of Derbent outside the medieval shakhristan. The soundings (No. 26–29) revealed layers of various geneses and... more
The article presents some results of an archaeological researches conducted at the northern city wall in the seaside part of Derbent outside the medieval shakhristan. The soundings (No. 26–29) revealed layers of various geneses and provided new data on the historical topography of the medieval town. The obtained data point at some cultural layers of Pre-Mongol period (X – early XIII century) outside the shakhristan (soundings No. 26–28). It was period of flourishing for the medieval Derbent when the city occupied the territory of architecturally allocated shakhristan and when the near and far agricultural areas was actively used. These materials also confirm the earlier obtained data that the active life of the city ceased in the second quarter of the XIII century due to Mongol invasions. At the same time, excavations revealed some layers related to the late Sasanian period and connected with the large-scale construction of a stone defensive wall in the middle of the VI century (sou...
Research Interests:
The article, on the basis of written sources and archaeological data, focuses on the Sasanian fortification construction activities in the territory of Caucasian Albania during the reign of Shahanshah Kavād I (488-531). This policy was... more
The article, on the basis of written sources and archaeological data, focuses on the Sasanian fortification construction activities in the territory of Caucasian Albania during the reign of Shahanshah Kavād I (488-531). This policy was aimed at creating both a stronghold against the nomads (the Sabirs, Huns, etc.), and an Iranian mainstay in the strategically important region of the Eastern Caucasus.
Research Interests:
... Moscow. (in Russian) (The History of Shirwan and Derbend of the X-XI centuries). Pikul&#x27; MI 1957. Otchet o rezul&#x27;tatah arheologicheskih issledovaniy v 1957 godu. ... Polovetskie kamennie izvayaniya. Moscow. (in... more
... Moscow. (in Russian) (The History of Shirwan and Derbend of the X-XI centuries). Pikul&#x27; MI 1957. Otchet o rezul&#x27;tatah arheologicheskih issledovaniy v 1957 godu. ... Polovetskie kamennie izvayaniya. Moscow. (in Russian) (Polovtsian stone statues). Solov&#x27;eva OA 1998. ...
Research Interests:
The paper presents the test experiment to investigate one of UNESCO’s (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) world heritage objects, an archaeological site in the Naryn-Kala citadel (Derbent, Republic of... more
The paper presents the test experiment to investigate one of UNESCO’s (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) world heritage objects, an archaeological site in the Naryn-Kala citadel (Derbent, Republic of Dagestan, Russian Federation) hidden under the ground’s surface. The function of the site could be revealed by the muon radiography studies. Several nuclear emulsion detectors were exposed for two months inside the site at a depth about 10 m from the modern surface. The use of nuclear emulsions as probing radiation detectors combined with the potential of modern image analysis methods provides for a uniquely high resolution capacity of recording instrumentation and 3D reconstruction of the internal structure of the investigated object. Here we present the experiment and data analysis details and the first results.
Research Interests:
The article, on the basis of written sources and archaeological data, focuses on the Sasanian fortification construction activities in the territory of Caucasian Albania during the reign of Shahanshah Kavād I (488-531). This policy was... more
The article, on the basis of written sources and archaeological data, focuses on the Sasanian fortification construction activities in the territory of Caucasian Albania during the reign of Shahanshah Kavād I (488-531). This policy was aimed at creating both a stronghold against the nomads (the Sabirs, Huns, etc.), and an Iranian mainstay in the strategically important region of the Eastern Caucasus.
Research Interests:
In 2020 during secure and rescue archaeological observations in Derbent, the Muslim burial ground, representing once vast separate section of medieval urban necropolis of Derbent outside the architecturally allocated shahristan, was... more
In 2020 during secure and rescue archaeological observations in Derbent, the Muslim burial ground, representing once vast separate section of medieval urban necropolis of Derbent outside the architecturally allocated shahristan, was identified. This site has more than 80 sarcophagus-shaped tombstones, which are conventionally referred to by their shape as “sarcophaguses” and dated to the last third of the 11th — 12th inset inscription — epitaph, written in Arabic in Kufi handwriting. Its text reads: “This is the grave of Muhammad, the Tinsmith. May Allah have mercy on him!” The monument is a rare example of sarcophagus-shaped tombstones with inscription. According to the epitaph, the buried man was a tinker and this information expands the range of craft specialties that existed in Derbent in the 11th — 12th centuries, and indicates the specialization of handicraft work in the processing of non-ferrous metals, taking into account the existence of manufacturers of copper objects, coppersmiths in Derbent. At the same time, the text of the epitaph shows not only the profession, but also the nickname of the buried man — Muhammad Lahim “Muhammad Tinsmith”. It’s possible that this sarcophagus was installed over the burial of one of the respected representative of the Sufi community in Derbent of the last third of the 11th — 12th centuries.
Research Interests:
The article examines the iron head of the mace-sheshper found during archaeological research in Derbent. The find was made on the territory of a newly discovered Muslim burial ground dating from the last third of the 11th — 12th centuries... more
The article examines the iron head of the mace-sheshper found during archaeological research in Derbent. The find was made on the territory of a newly discovered Muslim burial ground dating from the last third of the 11th — 12th centuries and including more than 80 stone sarcophagus-shaped burial monuments. The appearance of such tombstones in Derbent and other places of Daghestan is associated with the stay of the Seljuk military contingents here. The circumstances of the discovery of the head of sheshper indicate that it was specially laid under the fence plate of a separate funeral complex, which included four sarcophagus-shaped tombstones. The authors point to the analogous finds, determine the dating of the sheshper and its value as a status weapon and fix the status of this type of maces in Seljuk Empire. The found mace could belong to one of the commanders of the Seljuk military garrison which are mentioned in the list of “Martyrs of Bab al-Abwab” and were buried in the cemeteries of Derbent.
Research Interests:
The article draws attention to the interest in the epigraphic monuments of Derbent, which was shown by many authors who visited the city in the 17th century – Fedot Kotov (1624), Adam Olearius (1638), Evliya Çelebi (1647), Jan Jansen... more
The article draws attention to the interest in the epigraphic monuments of Derbent, which was shown by many authors who visited the city in the 17th century – Fedot Kotov (1624), Adam Olearius (1638), Evliya Çelebi (1647), Jan Jansen Struys (1670), as well as authors of the 18th-19th centuries (J. Bell, P.H. Bruce, I.G. Gerber, J. Lerch, J. Hanway, S.G. Gmelin, A. Dumas, etc.). The article provides a brief overview of the study of the epigraphic monuments of Derbent. It is noted that the beginning of the collection of epigraphic monuments of Derbent and their study is associated with the name of Prince Dmitry Kantemir (1673–1723) – the first Russian orientalist who head the campaign office of Emperor Peter the Great during the Persian campaign. In the 19th-20th centuries a great contribution to the identification and study of epigraphic monuments of Derbent was made by Ch.D. Frähn (1782–1851), I.A. Bartholomey (1813–1870), B.A. Dorn (1805–1881), N.V. Khanykov (1819–1878), E.A. Pakhomov (1880–1965), P.I. Spasskiy, H.S. Nyberg (1889–1974), S.Yu. Kasumova (1943–2017), G. Gropp, etc. Of particular note are the activities in the identification and study of Derbent epigraphy by L.I. Lavrov (1909–1982) and A.R. Shikhsaidov (1928–2019), authors of fundamental works on epigraphy of the North Caucasus and Dagestan, in which a significant place is allocated to the monuments of Derbent.
The article presents a brief overview of the monuments of Middle Persian (568–569 AD) and Arabic epigraphy (8th–12th centuries) revealed by the Derbent archaeological expedition in 1996–2021. Among them is one of the oldest Arabic Kufic inscriptions in the world, compiled in 176 AH/792–3 AD and mentioning Shahanshah Khosrow I Anushirvan (Arab. Kisra), “lord of the faithful” (amir al-mu’minin), caliph Harun al-Rashid and his son, “heir to the throne of Muslims” (valī ‘ahd al-muslimīn) al-Amin Muhammad, inscriptions of the 11th-12th centuries, discovered during the study of newly declared Muslim places of worship, a tombstone of the third quarter of the 11th-12th centuries with an epitaph (“This is the grave of Muhammad the Tinsmith (lakhim). The mercy of Allah over him”).
Discovered epigraphic monuments reveal new pages of Derbent history. Researchers have the important task of continuing to identify, study the medieval inscriptions of Derbent and create a corps of medieval epigraphy of this ancient city.
The article presents a brief overview of the monuments of Middle Persian (568–569 AD) and Arabic epigraphy (8th–12th centuries) revealed by the Derbent archaeological expedition in 1996–2021. Among them is one of the oldest Arabic Kufic inscriptions in the world, compiled in 176 AH/792–3 AD and mentioning Shahanshah Khosrow I Anushirvan (Arab. Kisra), “lord of the faithful” (amir al-mu’minin), caliph Harun al-Rashid and his son, “heir to the throne of Muslims” (valī ‘ahd al-muslimīn) al-Amin Muhammad, inscriptions of the 11th-12th centuries, discovered during the study of newly declared Muslim places of worship, a tombstone of the third quarter of the 11th-12th centuries with an epitaph (“This is the grave of Muhammad the Tinsmith (lakhim). The mercy of Allah over him”).
Discovered epigraphic monuments reveal new pages of Derbent history. Researchers have the important task of continuing to identify, study the medieval inscriptions of Derbent and create a corps of medieval epigraphy of this ancient city.
Research Interests:
As a result of archaeological supervision in Derbent, conducted in 2020, a section of a medieval northern city necropolis on a Muslim burial site was identified, located behind the northern city defensive wall. More than 80... more
As a result of archaeological supervision in Derbent, conducted in 2020, a section of a medieval northern city necropolis on a Muslim burial site was identified, located behind the northern city defensive wall. More than 80 sarcophagus-like tombstones were discovered, made of single stone monoliths and consisting of the upper part – the body, and a protruding rectangular plinth. They can be divided into three main types: 1 – with a semicircular cross-section of the body (semi-cylindrical), 2 – with a pointed cross-section, 3 – with a rectangular cross-section of the body. We point out Sarcophagi Nos. 1-3, two of which (Sarcophagi Nos. 1, 2) have a figure image on top of the body – an eight-pointed star or simplified hectogram – a well-known Muslim symbol rubʿal-Hizb or najmat al-Quds associated with one of the main shrines of Muslim mosque, the Dome of the Rock (Masjid Qubbat as-Sahra) in Jerusalem, also known as the “Seljuk star” (Turk. Selçuklu Yıldızı), which became widespread in the Seljuk Empire in architectural decoration and decorative and applied art (artistic ceramics, metal) in different variations. The length of the body of the identified sarcophagi ranges from 52 to 266 cm with a width of 19-68 cm and a height of 13-56 cm; the length of the plinth ranges from 68 cm to 288 cm with a width of 40-95 cm and a thickness of 5-10 cm. The dimensions of the sarcophagi most likely reflect three age categories of the buried: children, adolescents, and adults. Sarcophagus No. 40 has an epitaph in Arabic in Kufic script of the 11th – 12th с. All sarcophagi located in situ are oriented westbound and mark the location of burials under them, obviously having the same orientation and made in elongated rectangular stone boxes (cists). The identified sarcophagi date back to the last third of the 11th – 12th c. and their presence in Derbent and Dagestan is associated with the Seljuk military-political and ethno-cultural expansion in the Eastern Caucasus.
Research Interests:
The article describes the historical periods of development two closely related fields of activity in Daghestan (Russia) – local history and museology. Within each period, the authors highlight the stages of the local history and museum... more
The article describes the historical periods of development two closely related fields of activity in Daghestan (Russia) – local history and museology. Within each period, the authors highlight the stages of the local history and museum initiative of the local intellectuals and educators. The spatio-temporal dynamics of the network of local history museums in the context of the republic’s municipalities is analysed. The features of the evolution of local lore and museum affairs are revealed in the light of the prospects for the popularisation of the rich natural and cultural heritage of the “Country of the Mountains”. The issues surrounding the formation of effective museum and tourist clusters on this territory are discussed.
Research Interests:
A significant political influence of Sasanian Iran on Caucasian Albania gives reasons to consider the spread of Middle Persian language and writing among Albanian nobility and authorities. This process contributed by the existence of... more
A significant political influence of Sasanian Iran on Caucasian Albania gives reasons to consider the spread of Middle Persian language and writing among Albanian nobility and authorities. This process contributed by the existence of close dynastic ties between the Arsacids of Albania and the Sasanian royal family at least since from the reign of King Urnayr (ca. 350–375) up the abolition of Albanian kingdom at the beginning of the 6th century. Written sources provide
the correspondence of the rulers of Albania, Armenia, Iberia with the Sasanians and the written decrees of the shāhanshāhs sent to the Transcaucasian provinces of Iran, which indirectly indicates
the spread of Middle Persian language and writing here.
Currently, there are three known unique gem-seals that date back to the end of the 4th and
the beginning of the 6th century and belonged to the representatives of higher secular and church authorities. These are the seals of the King of Albania Aswahen, Crown Prince Asay and the Great Catholicos of Albania and Balasakan. They are of great interest for the study of cultural and political ties between Sasanian Iran and Albania, Albanian sphragistics. The title inscriptions on these official seals are made in pārsīg (pahlavi), which shows the role of Middle Persian language
and writing among the highest Albanian nobility and the highest Christian clergy of the country, clearly indicates the huge political and cultural influence of Sasanian Iran on Caucasian Albania. These monuments of glyptics show that Middle Persian language and writing had the official
status in Early Medieval Albania.
the correspondence of the rulers of Albania, Armenia, Iberia with the Sasanians and the written decrees of the shāhanshāhs sent to the Transcaucasian provinces of Iran, which indirectly indicates
the spread of Middle Persian language and writing here.
Currently, there are three known unique gem-seals that date back to the end of the 4th and
the beginning of the 6th century and belonged to the representatives of higher secular and church authorities. These are the seals of the King of Albania Aswahen, Crown Prince Asay and the Great Catholicos of Albania and Balasakan. They are of great interest for the study of cultural and political ties between Sasanian Iran and Albania, Albanian sphragistics. The title inscriptions on these official seals are made in pārsīg (pahlavi), which shows the role of Middle Persian language
and writing among the highest Albanian nobility and the highest Christian clergy of the country, clearly indicates the huge political and cultural influence of Sasanian Iran on Caucasian Albania. These monuments of glyptics show that Middle Persian language and writing had the official
status in Early Medieval Albania.
Research Interests:
The article discusses the interpretation of a mysterious underground building, situated in the Derbent citadel Naryn-Kala. This monumental structure is a crucifix (Latin cross) in plan, oriented with a long axis along the NNW-SSE line,... more
The article discusses the interpretation of a mysterious underground building, situated in the Derbent citadel Naryn-Kala. This monumental structure is a crucifix (Latin cross) in plan, oriented with a long axis along the NNW-SSE line, roofed with pointed arches and a dome. On the plans of the citadel of Derbent in the early-mid-19th century this underground building is indicated as a cruciform structure with the caption "water reservoir". In historical, reference literature and documentation it is defined as an underground water reservoir of the 17th-18th centuries. In 1976, A.A. Kudryavstev first suggested that this building was originally a church of the 5th-6th centuries. After almost 40 years, his suggestion was recognized as an established fact, however, with no solid ground or any supplementary reasons. At the same time, distortion of facts and forgery were recorded. This unfounded opinion was promoted even by high-ranking government officials. In 1998, G.M. Kurbanov assumed a possible interpretation of this site as a Zoroastrian fire temple. In 2020, V.L. Myts speculated that this is a Christian martyrium. However, architectural and archeological data contradict these interpretations: the land-based, early medieval, or religious nature of the building has not been proved. Comprehensive (architectural, archeological, magnetometric, etc.) study of this site, without large-scale archeological excavations, is needed.
Research Interests:
The article discusses the relationship between the Maskut kingdom of the western Caspian coast and the Huns in Late Antiquity. The author claims that the abandonment of several Lvov cemeteries and settlements in the Terek-Sulak... more
The article discusses the relationship between the Maskut kingdom of
the western Caspian coast and the Huns in Late Antiquity. The author claims that the abandonment of several Lvov cemeteries and settlements in the Terek-Sulak interfluve, as well as the increased migration of Maskuts and Alans to the territory south of the Derbent Pass were related to the Hun invasion at the end of the 4th century AD. Two factors are considered in the discontinuation of the Palasa-Syrt and
other kurgan cemeteries of southern and coastal Dagestan in the middle of the 5th century. The first factor is the possible merger between the Maskuts and the Huns during the invasion of Transcaucasia and their occupation of the Derbent Pass about 440. The second factor is the subsequent expulsion of both the Maskuts and Huns by Sasanian Iran from the territory south of Derbent. The Sasanids strengthened their
political influence in the Eastern Caucasus in the 440s. They also gained control over the Derbent Pass, which is reflected in the textual sources and in the Derbent and Torpakh-Kala mudbrick fortifications.
the western Caspian coast and the Huns in Late Antiquity. The author claims that the abandonment of several Lvov cemeteries and settlements in the Terek-Sulak interfluve, as well as the increased migration of Maskuts and Alans to the territory south of the Derbent Pass were related to the Hun invasion at the end of the 4th century AD. Two factors are considered in the discontinuation of the Palasa-Syrt and
other kurgan cemeteries of southern and coastal Dagestan in the middle of the 5th century. The first factor is the possible merger between the Maskuts and the Huns during the invasion of Transcaucasia and their occupation of the Derbent Pass about 440. The second factor is the subsequent expulsion of both the Maskuts and Huns by Sasanian Iran from the territory south of Derbent. The Sasanids strengthened their
political influence in the Eastern Caucasus in the 440s. They also gained control over the Derbent Pass, which is reflected in the textual sources and in the Derbent and Torpakh-Kala mudbrick fortifications.
Research Interests:
Since the early 4th century, ancient Armenian authors (P'awstos Buzand, Movsēs Xorenac'i, Agat'angełos, Movsēs Dasxuranc'i, the Ašxarac'oyc) begin to mention the Land of the Mazk'ut' (Arm. ašharh Mazk't'acʻ), located in the East Caucasus.... more
Since the early 4th century, ancient Armenian authors (P'awstos Buzand, Movsēs Xorenac'i, Agat'angełos, Movsēs Dasxuranc'i, the Ašxarac'oyc) begin to mention the Land of the Mazk'ut' (Arm. ašharh Mazk't'acʻ), located in the East Caucasus. The Sarmato-Alan burial mounds of plain Daghestan of the 3rd-5th centuries (Lvov, Palasa-Syrt, etc.) are attributed to this ethnic community. In 216 AD these tribes invaded Armenia through the Derbent pass (Arm. durn Čoray) (Khorenatsi 2,65), and took part in the Armenian-Iranian war in the middle of the 3rd century. At the beginning of the 4th century the post of "bdeašx from the Mazk'ut's" (Agatangełos. 874) appears in administrative apparatus of Armenia, which shows the military and strategic value of the Land of Mazk'ut's. At the same time, the family dynastic ties are apparently established between the ruling houses of Armenia and the kingdom of the Mazk'ut' (Ašxen, Ašxadar, Trdat, Sanesan, Xosrow). The importance of this kingdom can be seen by the events of the 330s'-the struggle for the Armenian throne after the king Trdat's death in c. 330 AD, in which the different tribes led by Sanesan, the King of the Mazk'ut', took active part. The discontinuance of the Mazk'ut' burial mounds in the middle of the 5th century might be explained, on the one hand, by the possible annexation of the Mazk'ut' by the Huns during the invasion of Transcaucasia and the seizure of the Derbent pass in circa 440 AD; on the other hand, by the subsequent forceful displacement of the Mazk'ut's and the Huns from the territory to the south of Derbent along with the strengthening of Sasanian Iran in the East Caucasus in the 440s' and regain of control over the Derbent pass, which can be traced both in written sources (Ełishe, History of Karka de Beth Selok) and fortification monuments (mud-brick fortifications of Derbent and Torpakh-kala).
Research Interests:
Daghestan is the region of the richest historical and cultural heritage, represented, among other things, by numerous archaeological sites. Today, 1834 archaeological sites located on the territory of the Republic of Daghestan are on... more
Daghestan is the region of the richest historical and cultural heritage, represented, among other things, by numerous archaeological sites. Today, 1834 archaeological sites located on the territory of the Republic of Daghestan are on state record. Archaeological sites of Daghestan cover a chronological range of 2 million years - from the sites of the oldowan (such as Aynikab and Mukhkay), which have been comprehensively investigated for more than 10 years), to monuments of new times (such as the fortress of the Svyatoy Krest (Holy Cross), Tersky gorodok, etc., which are still waiting for their researchers).
Research Interests:
In the territory of the Derbent settlement of the I-VI centuries AD, a Muslim necropolis emerged in the Middle Ages; 71 burials were excavated on the site in 1977, 1989, 2012, 2013, 2015-2019. The paper publishes with interpretations a... more
In the territory of the Derbent settlement of the I-VI centuries AD, a Muslim necropolis emerged in the Middle Ages; 71 burials were excavated on the site in 1977, 1989, 2012, 2013, 2015-2019. The paper publishes with interpretations a rare representative medieval complex – burial No 24, discovered in the dig XXV (2016). As other Muslim burials of the same cemetery, the one under study was dug in a simple narrow pit (Arab. shiqq / shaqq ‘a trench’) in compliance with all the Muslim funerary norms: the buried laid stretched out on his back, head to the west, the skull turned to the right with the facial bones to the south in the direction of the qibla; no grave goods were revealed. A man of 45-55 years old, of average height and build was buried in the grave. Traces of three simultaneous injuries from saber blows were recorded on the skull, one of which qualifies as fatal. The dating of the burial, as well as of other burials of the necropolis, is guided by the discovery of a tombstone with an epitaph and a date (915 AH / April of 1509 – April of 1510), along with a fragment of another tombstone. The epitaphs of both tombstones mention the title shahid, which was granted postmortem to the buried men. The indicated date provides an opportunity to compare the burials of shahids with military-political events of that time in the East Caucasus, when in 915 AH an army of Ismail I attempted to conquer Shirvan in the name of the struggle between Shiahs and Sunnis, and seized Shamakha, Baku, Shabran, and then sieged Derbent. The burial No 24, in which the man with traces of battle injuries was buried, obviously dates back to the same time period.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
As a result of studies conducted in the city of Derbent, it is established that its monumental fortification structures erected at the end of the 560s AD underwent numerous strong seismic shocks during their existence. The number and... more
As a result of studies conducted in the city of Derbent, it is established that its monumental fortification structures erected at the end of the 560s AD underwent numerous strong seismic shocks during their existence. The number and approximate ages of the strong seismic events that affected Derbent throughout its history are determined by the age of the deformed stone masonry. Five episodes of seismogenic destructions are identified. Clockwise rotations around the vertical axis along the interblock joints at the segment of the Sasanian masonry of the curtain wall and the tower of the southern wall of the citadel are noted to occur in late Sasanian and early Arab times (from the 6th century to the beginning of the 8th century). They were large in value and caused by seismic action. Numerous cases of rebuilding and relaying in the defensive walls of the city are also revealed. The building works during the Arab period, especially in the 8th century, described in written sources, were probably caused not only by the military confrontation of the Arab Caliph-ate and the Khazar Khaganate (the Arab-Khazar wars), which led to the damage of some segments in the defensive walls, but also by seismic activity. At the boundary of the Arab period and the rise of the Derbent Emirate (8th-11th centuries), a significant seismogenic rupture occurred in the upper part of the northern wall of the city between the citadel and the Dzharchi-Kapi Gate. The character of dislocations corresponds to seismic shocks from the northwest. It is established that the repair and building works on reinforcing the defensive walls in the Sasanian citadel by later masonry (including rustication) were performed during the existence of the Derbent Emirate and in the Seljuk period. These works could be not only a consequence of destruction during the confrontation between the Derbent emirs with the city elite and the Shirvanshah state, which is described in the Tarikh al-Bab chronicle, but also as a result of the seismic destructions in the fortifications. The destruction and repair of the Juma Mosque occurred in the middle of 14th century (the 1360s). The seismic shocks, resulting in the destruction, arrived from the north. This destruction apparently caused the subsequent building activity in the Derbendi Shirvanshah period in the 15th century, especially during the reign of Khalilullah I (1417-1462), which was described in the building inscriptions and the typical features of Shirvan architecture (the Orta-Kapi Gate, Minaret Mosque). The women's bathhouse, which was damaged by seismic vibrations propagating in submeridional direction, was repaired at the end of 18th century. The tectonic displacement of the basement blocks in the dugout of Peter the Great dates to this period as well.
Research Interests:
В публикации кратко освещаются исследорвания на Дербентском поселении (раскоп XXV), проведенные в 2016, 2017, 2019 гг.
Research Interests:
В публикации дается краткий обзор археологических исследжований и открытий в Дербенте в 2000-2019 гг.
Research Interests:
According to archaeological data, the Albanian-Sarmatian period is characterized by a weak population of the territory of Dagestan. In the mountainous part of the region there is an almost complete population decline to the turn of the... more
According to archaeological data, the Albanian-Sarmatian period is characterized by a weak population of the territory of Dagestan. In the mountainous part of the region there is an almost complete population decline to the turn of the era, which began in the early Iron Age and is associated with a recorded cooling in the mountains in that period. In the 3rd century AD, there was an active growth in the number of settlements, the emergence of a hierarchy of settlements, including early urban centers, which reflected the cardinal socio-economic transformations in society. Since that time, the Iranian-speaking nomads began their mass migration to the Caspian Dagestan, which was due to the climatic factor and political events in the region. Population growth and density in the 3rd-5th centuries AD and the reverse settlement of the mountain zone, obviously, was a consequence of the socio-economic development of society against the background of climate improvement. The observed climatic changes were recorded according to the results of paleobotanical studies of the ancient peatland in Mountainous Dagestan, which showed the relationship of migration and demographic processes with the natural and climatic situation. The deterioration of the military and political situation in the Caspian plain in the 6th-8th centuries AD was the reason for the termination of the functioning of many settlements on the border of the plain and foothills and caused back migration to the mountains.
Research Interests:
The results of the latest research on active faults in Southern Dagestan, in the area of Derbent, using the paleoseismological and archeoseismological methods are highlighted. The zone of seismogenerating fault—the Derbent segment of the... more
The results of the latest research on active faults in Southern Dagestan, in the area of Derbent,
using the paleoseismological and archeoseismological methods are highlighted. The zone of seismogenerating
fault—the Derbent segment of the regional tectonic boundary between the mountain structure of the
Greater Caucasus and the North Caucasian foredeep—is revealed. The last seismotectonic slip along the fault
due to a strong earthquake led to the displacement of the early medieval city wall of Derbent. The magnitude
of this event was M ≈ 7, and, therefore, the seismic shaking intensity was I0 ≥ IX. This seismic event occurred,
most likely, in the 10th century AD.
using the paleoseismological and archeoseismological methods are highlighted. The zone of seismogenerating
fault—the Derbent segment of the regional tectonic boundary between the mountain structure of the
Greater Caucasus and the North Caucasian foredeep—is revealed. The last seismotectonic slip along the fault
due to a strong earthquake led to the displacement of the early medieval city wall of Derbent. The magnitude
of this event was M ≈ 7, and, therefore, the seismic shaking intensity was I0 ≥ IX. This seismic event occurred,
most likely, in the 10th century AD.
Research Interests:
The results of the latest research on active faults in Southern Dagestan in the region of Derbent using the methods of paleo- and archeoseismology are highlighted. The seismic-generating fault zone – the Derbent segment of the regional... more
The results of the latest research on active faults in Southern Dagestan in the region of Derbent using the methods of paleo- and archeoseismology are highlighted. The seismic-generating fault zone – the Derbent segment of the regional tectonic boundary between the Greater Caucasus and the North Caucasian foredeep, has been identified. The last strong earthquake along the fault led to the displacement of the early medieval city wall of Derbent. The magnitude of this event was M ≈ 7 and, consequently, the seismic intensity Io IX. The age of the seismic event is most likely – X century.
Research Interests:
The article is dedicated to the results of 2017 season excavations of Derbent settlement which existed before construction of the Derbent defensive complex at the end of 560-s. This settlement was gradually left after the construction of... more
The article is dedicated to the results of 2017 season excavations of Derbent settlement which existed before construction of the Derbent defensive complex at the end of 560-s. This settlement was gradually left after the construction of a new city given the new name Derbent (Darband). The cultural layers and the construction remain (rooms 6, 7, 8, 9) of the 5-th – 6-th centuries AD, the medieval Muslim burials which have been dug in the layer of the settlement were open in the southern sector of the excavation area XXV.The revealed complex of inhabited and economic constructions including 9 rooms is dated the 5th century AD on the basis of chronological indicators (bronze belt buckles, fibula) and other archeological finds (including, Sasanian pottery). Authors consider that this complex has stopped existence during the military-political events of the middle of the 5th century or of the beginning of the 6th century, namely in the period of an anti-Sasanian revolt of 450-451 or Iran-Savir war of 503-508 AD.The materials obtained during excavations shed new light on issues of historical topography and layout, stratigraphy and chronology, architecture and construction, economic activity, culture and life of the inhabitants of the Derbent settlement which is identified with the city-fortress of Chor/Chol known for ancient Armenian, Georgian, Syrian, Early Byzantine and Arab authors and which was the important administrative, military and religious center of East Caucasus.
Research Interests:
В учебном пособии для школьников освещается история Дагестана с древнейших времен до XV века включительно. Материал учебного пособия позволяет школьнику получить представление об основных событиях истории Дагестана, увидеть картину... more
В учебном пособии для школьников освещается история Дагестана с древнейших времен до XV века включительно. Материал учебного пособия позволяет школьнику получить представление об основных событиях истории Дагестана, увидеть картину поэтапного исторического процесса от каменного века до развитого средневековья в доступных деталях и подробностях, углубить свои знания и развить любовь к истории родного края. Книга богато иллюстрирована. Каждый параграф снабжен разделами "Подводим итоги", «"Запоминаем новые слова", "Даты", "Вопросы и задания", "Для любознательных», «Изучаем источник», в которых школьник может почерпнуть дополнительные сведения по истории Дагестана, закрепить изученный материал.
Research Interests:
The proposed book is the first experience of archaeological studying of medieval Muslim funerary sites of Derbent, that was the most important Islamic center of the Caucasus since the adoption of Islam here at the beginning of the 8th... more
The proposed book is the first experience of archaeological studying of medieval Muslim funerary sites of Derbent, that was the most important Islamic center of the Caucasus since the adoption of Islam here at the beginning of the 8th century. A study of the identified burials, embracing an almost 800-year range - from the turn of the 8th-9th centuries to the 16th century - demonstrates the existence of various types of Muslim burials, which fit into the framework of the Islamic burial rite and reflect the changes that took place in the funeral rite. The observed transformations of burial structures and tombstones were due to changes that took place at certain periods in the ethnocultural appearance of the urban population caused by military-political events in the East Caucasus.
Research Interests:
The school textbook on history of Daghestan from ancient times to the 16th century for pupils of the 6th class
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
В книге осуществлено комплексное междисциплинарное исследование материалов опорного памятника Западного Прикаспия финала позднесарматского и гуннского времени – курганного могильника Паласа-сырт, а также культурно близких ему некрополей... more
В книге осуществлено комплексное междисциплинарное исследование материалов опорного памятника Западного Прикаспия финала позднесарматского и гуннского времени – курганного могильника Паласа-сырт, а также культурно близких ему некрополей Прикаспийского Дагестана. Публикуются материалы новейших (2008-2012 гг.) полевых исследований данных памятников. Их анализ в совокупности с ранее исследованными комплексами региона позволил выйти на новый уровень их понимания в системе древностей Северного Кавказа поздней античности и начала эпохи Великого переселения народов и решения проблемы культурогенеза населения, оставившего эти некрополи. Предложено решение проблемы формирования группы курганных могильников Юга Восточной Европы, получивших название «памятники типа Львовские – Паласа-сырт», которые территориально и этнокультурно связываются со «страной маскутов» в Западном Прикаспии, известной по данным письменным источникам. В книге приводится анализ письменных источников, исследование палеоантропологических, палеопочвенных материалов, полученных при раскопках Паласа-сыртского могильника.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
В книге анализируются некоторые негативные тенденции, существующие в современной историографии Северного Кавказа и характеризующиеся этноцентристским искажением и вульгаризацией процессов этногенеза, древней и средневековой истории... more
В книге анализируются некоторые негативные тенденции, существующие в современной историографии Северного Кавказа и характеризующиеся этноцентристским искажением и вульгаризацией процессов этногенеза, древней и средневековой истории народов региона. Показана существенная роль, которую в наше время стали играть археология и древняя история Кавказа в местном политическом экстремизме и этнонационализме. Книга написана в научно-публицистическом жанре, имеет полемическую направленность и может быть использована в практической работе не только узких специалистов, но и преподавателей высших и средних учебных заведений, творческих работников, всех, кто имеет соприкосновение со сложными проблемами межнациональных отношений на Северном Кавказе.
Research Interests:
"Scientific Works of Dagestan Geographical Society" are devoted to the most urgent geographical problems of region. In the annuals the constant headings are allocated: common problems, regional ecology, social geography, economic... more
"Scientific Works of Dagestan Geographical Society" are devoted to the most urgent geographical problems of region. In the annuals the constant headings are allocated: common problems, regional ecology, social geography, economic geography, political geography, physical geography, biogeography, historical geography, cultural geography, medical geography, linguistic geography, geoinformation systems, discussions, short reports, bibliography, chronicle, anniversaries and memorials.
Research Interests:
"Scientific Works of Dagestan Geographical Society" are devoted to the most urgent geographical problems of region. In the annuals the constant headings are allocated: common problems, regional ecology, social geography, economic... more
"Scientific Works of Dagestan Geographical Society" are devoted to the most urgent geographical problems of region. In the annuals the constant headings are allocated: common problems, regional ecology, social geography, economic geography, political geography, physical geography, biogeography, historical geography, cultural geography, medical geography, linguistic geography, geoinformation systems, discussions, short reports, bibliography, chronicle, anniversaries and memorials.
Research Interests:
В статье публикуются монетные находки из раскопок средневекового мусульманского культового комплекса и их анализ.
Research Interests:
Описываются основные контуры и ход подготовки к реализации масштабного проекта под названием «Подводное наследие Каспийского моря». Проект предполагает создание в территориальной и акваториальной зонах самого южного российского города... more
Описываются основные контуры и ход подготовки к реализации масштабного проекта под названием «Подводное наследие Каспийского моря». Проект предполагает создание в территориальной и акваториальной зонах самого южного российского города Дербента современного учреждения музейного типа, включающего наземную и подводную части. Авторы предлагают оригинальные подходы к созданию музейного типа «Подводный парк» со специализацией в области современного искусства и передовых технологий. На стадии проектирование важное место отводится вопросам творческого взаимодействия ряда московских и дагестанских организаций научного, общественного и оборонного профиля под эгидой Русского географического общества. Обсуждаются некоторые перспективные проблемы развития в прикаспийской зоне Южного Дагестана промышленно-рекреационных сочетаний.
Research Interests:
В статье отражены итоги совещания на тему предстоящего празднования 300-летия Персидского похода 1722-1723 гг. Петра I. Излагается краткое содержание докладов совещания, в том числе выступление модератора данного мероприятия – главного... more
В статье отражены итоги совещания на тему предстоящего празднования 300-летия Персидского похода 1722-1723 гг. Петра I. Излагается краткое содержание докладов совещания, в том числе выступление модератора данного мероприятия – главного штурмана Военно-морского флота России, контр-адмирала Эдуарда Луйка. Определяются основные вопросы организации и проведения в 2022 г. двух мероприятий всероссийского масштаба, посвященных этому юбилею: научно-практической конференции в г. Дербенте и подводной экспедиции по поиску остатков затонувших судов Петровской эскадры при поддержке Каспийской флотилии ВМФ России.
Research Interests:
The article describes the historical periods of development two closely related fields of activity in Daghestan (Russia)-local history and museology. Within each period, the authors highlight the stages of the local history and museum... more
The article describes the historical periods of development two closely related fields of activity in Daghestan (Russia)-local history and museology. Within each period, the authors highlight the stages of the local history and museum initiative of the local intellectuals and educators. The spatio-temporal dynamics of the network of local history museums in the context of the republic's municipalities is analysed. The features of the evolution of local lore and museum affairs are revealed in the light of the prospects for the popularisation of the rich natural and cultural heritage of the "Country of the Mountains". The issues surrounding the formation of effective museum and tourist clusters on this territory are discussed.