Preliminary results of excavations of the Early Bronze Age settlement in Lernakert (Armenia)

Abstract

In 2019 an Early Bronze Age settlement was recorded within the territory of Lernakert village of Shirak. It occupied the territory of the Early Iron Age fortress of Vari Berd and its surrounding area, reaching the south-western limits of the village. The homogenous and contemporary pottery fragments of the Karnut-Shengavit group associated with the second stage of the Early Bronze Age were unearthed in three test trenches. The assemblage mainly included rim fragments of pithoi, pots, deep bowls, as well as lids, handles, andiron-pedestals etc. These objects represent mainly kitchen ware and objects of everyday use. Some of them, however, bear geometrical patterns, bird and animal decorations and incised ornaments. A bronze crescent-shaped artifact was found within the territory of the site, which is one of the rare examples found in Armenia typical of this period. The mentioned findings reveal a relatively developed level of Early Bronze Age culture in Lernakert.