Unearthed Artifacts Hint at Tax Collectors in 11th-Century Russia
In a recent excavation of a medieval cemetery in Russia, archaeologists have stumbled upon intriguing artifacts that suggest the deceased may have been tax collectors from the 11th century. The discovery, made at the historic Gnezdilovo burial ground near Suzdal, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past.
A Unique Discovery
Since 2020, researchers have been working at the Gnezdilovo burial site, a 7-acre expanse first identified in 1851. The cemetery, located northeast of Moscow, has long been a rich source of archaeological finds, including jewelry, coins, and weaponry. Recent excavations of approximately 50 “undisturbed burials” have revealed even more about the site’s historical significance.
Among the most noteworthy finds are two adjacent burials featuring battle axes and equestrian gear. Grave No. 59, in particular, has attracted considerable attention. It contains the remains of a 35-to-40-year-old man buried with several intriguing items: a bronze belt buckle shaped like a lyre, a knife, a broken ceramic vessel, and a metal battle axe with a distinctive “small hammer” and semicircular notch. This type of axe was prevalent during the 11th and 12th centuries, and similar examples have been discovered in Volga Bulgaria, now part of Russia.
The Second Burial
In the plot next to Grave No. 59, archaeologists found the remains of a man aged 25 to 30. This grave featured a “complex wooden burial structure” constructed without iron nails, alongside another lyre-shaped buckle, a lock, a knife with a remaining sheath, equestrian equipment including stirrups and a saddle buckle, and a similar battle axe. The presence of various weights, possibly used for weighing coins, further suggests a fiscal role.
Theories and Implications
While the exact identities of the two men remain unknown, their high-status burials and associated artifacts lead researchers to believe they might have been involved in tax collection or other fiscal functions. This theory is supported by the discovery of weights likely used for handling taxes.
The finds at Gnezdilovo provide a rare and valuable look into the military culture and social structure of northeastern Russia during the medieval period. The artifacts not only highlight the advanced craftsmanship of the time but also offer clues about the roles and statuses of individuals within the society.
This excavation continues to enrich our understanding of medieval Russian history, shedding light on the daily lives and duties of those who lived centuries ago.
