The results of researching of Algay site in the Lower Volga region in 2022

Abstract

Excavations of the Algay multi-layered site in 2022 confirmed the presence of a stratigraphic sequence of occurrence of the Neolithic and Eneolithic layers. The finds are represented by fragments of ceramics, quartzite and flint tools and production waste, animal bones and bone tools. The upper cultural layer is identified as the Khvalynskaya, middle as the Cis-Caspian layer, lower as the Orlovsky Neolithic layer. Stone inventory differs in raw materials, flint and quartzite tools were found. Scrapers of different types, points and geometric microliths were found. As for the ceramic inventory, a fragment of a wall ornamented with a jagged stamp was found in the Khvalynskaya cultural layer. However, this specimen can be attributed to both the Khvalynskaya and Altatinskaya cultures. The results of the technical and technological analysis of ceramics showed the presence of only two technological subgroups of vessels made from silty and natural clays. Vessels made of silt have not been recorded, but the results of previous years of excavations revealed the use of three types of raw materials at the Algay site. The Neolithic layer is represented by pottery with prickly incised ornaments made using the technique of pricking, retreating, and less often incising. The revealed features of the making of the dishes are close to the pottery technology of the Orlovskaya culture of the Lower Volga region, the population of the Varfolomeevskaya site (Saratov Region). The specificity of this sample is the absence of ceramics made in accordance with more archaic methods (the use of silt as the initial plastic raw material), which is known for the Algay site from previous excavations.