Busheve and Pischana — Hill-Forts of Porossya Defensive Line. Topographic Survey and Stratigraphic Researches

Abstract

This paper presents the results of topographic survey, analysis of topography, current state of sites and gives an example of stratigraphic reconstruction of fortifications based on ground drilling. The main steps of the methodology of topographic survey and stratigraphic researches are highlighted.
 The closest hillforts to the Sukholisy one were documented by specialists of the Architectural and Archaeological Expedition of Institute of Archaeology during the campagne of 2020. The purpose of these works was to document the current state of sites and to prepare information for the conservation documentary.
 Busheve hillfort is similar to the Sukholisy one by its construction type and belongs to the early hillforts in the defensive line of Ros River area (Porossia). The study of this site is important for understanding the initial stage of the Old Rus settlement structure of Central Porossia region.
 Due to the stratigraphic research the cross-section of Busheve and Pishchana hillforts was reconstructed. Analyzing the information obtained from the ground drilling it is possible to make some conclusions for Busheve hillfort: 1) the defensive constructions of this hillfort were built in the river floodplain around a large dune; 2) the moat is traced only on one side; 3) drills 16—18 probably indicates the presence of archaeological layers appeared before the hillfort constructions.
 Conclusions by the results of drilling for Pishchana hillfort are the following: 1) the moat was made by deepening of the natural ravine; 2) the defensive wall has the traces of repair; 3) drill 11 found that on the edge of the hillfort the fortifications of World War II period were bult.
 The number of large-scale plans of Busheve and Pishchana hillforts were made with all the necessary descriptions and measurements with designation the constructions of the hillforts; stratigraphic researches; current state of hillforts; areas damaged by human activities. They are made for the preparation of conservation documentary.