Ancient Burial Ground Unearthed During Fortification Work
Ukrainian soldiers from the 123rd Territorial Defense Brigade made a remarkable archaeological discovery while constructing fortifications in southern Ukraine. During excavation, they uncovered an ancient burial ground dating back to the 6th–5th centuries BC. The find was reported by the brigade’s press service.
A Chance Discovery Leads to a Significant Find
The discovery was made by Mykola, an excavator operator, who unearthed a small amphora. Recognizing its potential significance, he consulted his colleague Yevhen, a history enthusiast. Together, they decided to donate the artifact to the Mykolaiv Regional Museum of Local Lore, also known as “Staroflotski Barracks.”
Experts Identify Corinthian Amphora and Ionian Oinochoe
Museum specialists examined the find and identified it as a Corinthian amphora, traditionally used in burial rituals. Further excavation revealed another significant artifact—an Ionian oinochoe, an ancient Greek jug with a single handle and three spouts, commonly used during symposia, the ritualized feasts of ancient Greece.
“These vessels were specifically created for burials and imported from Greece,” explained Oleksandr, a former archaeologist and lecturer at Mykolaiv National University, now serving in the military. “Their well-preserved condition suggests they belonged to individuals of high social status.”
Alongside these artifacts, the soldiers also transferred human skeletal remains from the burial site to the museum for further study.
Cultural Heritage Protection in Wartime
In December 2024, the Armed Forces of Ukraine established a cultural heritage protection unit within the Civil-Military Cooperation Department. This unit is dedicated to safeguarding historical sites and preventing their destruction amid ongoing hostilities.
Other Recent Archaeological Discoveries in Ukraine
This discovery follows another significant find in September 2024, when border guards near the Polish border uncovered a hidden cache of World War I-era weapons. Among the recovered items were rare Lishin stick grenades, first developed in 1904 for the Russian Empire’s army. Although never officially adopted, these grenades were handmade by soldiers and referenced in historical military manuals.
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