Papers by Iliyan Petrakiev
АРХЕОЛОГИЧЕСКИ ОТКРИТИЯ И РАЗКОПКИ ПРЕЗ 2016 ARCHAEOLOGICAL DISCOVERIES AND EXCAVATIONS IN 2016 София , 2017
The regular archaeological excavations took place from June 8th to July 22nd, 2016. A total area ... more The regular archaeological excavations took place from June 8th to July 22nd, 2016. A total area of some 300
m2 was explored with focus on two sections (fig. 1): the western gate (fig.3) with parts from the western and northern
fortification walls (fig. 2), and a ditch in trench No. LIV. A total of 206 coins were found – 32 Roman coins (4th –
5th century) and 174 medieval coins, mainly dated 1204–1257. The numismatic material confirmed the stratigraphic
observations that there were two 13th century construction periods. No coins issued after 1244 were found. On one
hand this might be related to the Tatar invasion. On the other hand precise coin minting was in progress at that time
(1250–1257). The rest of the finds were mainly Late Iron Age fibulae (4th century BC), and belt appliques and an iron
knife dated to the 10th century.
археологически открития и разкопки през 2018 ARCHAEOLOGICAL DISCOVERIES AND EXCAVATIONS IN 2018, 2019
The survey was carried out with two magnetometers. The explored area was 1.52 ha, divided into th... more The survey was carried out with two magnetometers. The explored area was 1.52 ha, divided into three parts
(Fig. 1).
In area 1 (Fig. 2) series of isometric anomalies A1 were detected, which could indicate presence of different constructions
(kilns, burned down buildings, pits, etc.). Alongside those, we could track A2, which might be related to some
kind of linear construction (filled channel, ditch or linear structure). A3 and A4 were supposed to have geological origin,
A5 – A8 could have both anthropological (remains from linear constructions, channels, etc.) or geological origin.
In area 2 (Fig. 3), A21 was probably due to the presence of a metal object; A22, A23 and A24 are with geological
origin. There were a few weaker anomalies united in A25 and A26 coincided with a power line.
Area 3 was divided into two subsections by the linear anomaly A34 which was of geological origin, and which
crossed the area to the east from its central part. A31 – A33 might be caused by modern disruptions of the terrain.
археологически открития и разкопки през 2018 ARCHAEOLOGICAL DISCOVERIES AND EXCAVATIONS IN 2018, 2019
The field survey continued five days in the period between 4 – 19 April 2018. The area of 1.14 km... more The field survey continued five days in the period between 4 – 19 April 2018. The area of 1.14 km2 was covered with 188 polygons (Fig. 1). The data collected was systematized in GIS database in QGIS. We have registered 35 places of interest until now. Two of them were registered in AIS AKB. Site 1 (No 10006475) was located NE of Torbalazhite village in Sechen Kamak locality. Fifteen round cuts in the rock were recorded (Fig. 3). In diameter, they ranged between 0.70 to 1.6 m and in depth, when hewn into the rock, they ranged from 0.23 to 0.43 m. Parts of them were with flat or with conical surface. Site 2 was located to the west of them (No 10006476). It was a fully destroyed burial mound, having a diameter of 16 m. Two pottery fragments from Late Iron Age were found in a treasure-hunter trench. The other 33 sites, which could be influenced by the anthropological factor, but which also lacked exact chronological or cultural identity data, were marked as “offsite” (Fig. 2).
археологически открития и разкопки през 2020 г. книга II ARCHAEOLOGICAL DISCOVERIES AND EXCAVATIONS IN 2020 BOOk 2 , 2021
Archaeological excavations were carried out for 17 days – from 23.09 to 23.10.2020 at a total are... more Archaeological excavations were carried out for 17 days – from 23.09 to 23.10.2020 at a total area of about 330 sq. m. in two main sectors: the north fortification wall and the south suburb.
The north fortification wall:
In 2020 a new sector was unearthed of the north fortification wall external side and the space in front of it, measuring about 25 m in length in sq. ХХVІ3,4 and ХХVІІ1,2,3 (Fig. 1-3).
In sq. ХХVІІ1,2 a new bastion-tower was unearthed at about 33.40 m east of tower No. 1 (Fig. 2-3). It has been established that the fortification facilities in this sector were constructed according to a certain algorithm regarding the distance between the towers. The distance between the two towers is almost the same as the distance between the NW corner of the fortress and the first tower. Tower No. 2 is also trapezoidal in shape though not so pronounced, covering 13.40 sq. m. It protrudes in front of the fortification wall at 2.90 m from the west face, and at 3.20 m from the east face, and its 4.60 m wide at its outermost northern part and 4.25 m at the curtainat its outermost northern part and 4.25 m at the curtain. The difference between the lengths of the western and eastern walls is probably due to the slight southward curve of the course of the fortress wall, east after tower No. 2 (Fig. 3).
The south suburb:
The eastern part of the building in sq. ССХХХVІІІ5,9 was examined. It was ascertained that this section had been almost completely destroyed and only the NE corner and part of the east wall of the structure survived. The thus measured total length of the building, together with the wall appended wall to the west, is 18.32 m. Unfortunately, as it is not possible to study the SE part of the building, currently we are not in a position to outline the exact plan and function of the building (Fig. 4-5).
West of the building, in squares ССХХХVІІ 9, 10 we continue the excavations of a dug-in structure No.3 (Fig. 4-5). It was found that the building was somewhat elongated in the NE-SW direction and this is presumably a ditch or any other sunken structure. In 2019 based on the two localized amphora handles with anepigraphic stamps and a lead imitation coin of Odessos, the structure was dated (2nd–1st centuries BC) The dating was confirmed also by the pottery and a similar amphora stamp unearthed in 2020.
In 2020, 169 finds were inventoried, of which 132 were coins, among them: 11 Roman (late 3rd–early 5th centuries), 4 Byzantine from the 12th c. and 113 from the 13th c., of which the most numerous are Latin imitations - 63, Bulgarian imitations - 6, the Kingdom of Thessalonica - 3, as well as 40 cut and depersonalized coins. Worth noting among them is a cut quarter of a copper coin of Tsar Ivan Assen II (1218 - 1241). Coins minted after 1257 have also been unearthed for the first time. These are two coins – type І and type V of Tsar Konstantin Assen (1257 – 1277).
ARCHAEOLOGICAL DISCOVERIES AND EXCAVATIONS IN 2019 BOOK 2 / Sofia 2020, 2020
A new section with a length of about 30 m from the northern fortress wall has been excavated (fig... more A new section with a length of about 30 m from the northern fortress wall has been excavated (fig. 1). About 32.50
m east of the northwest corner of the fortress a trapezoidal tower bastion has been revealed with an area of 4.35 m2 (figs
1, 2). The tower has been structurally connected to the fortress wall and was build with the same type of medium- and
large-size broken stones, bound with white mortar.
Four new graves from the 13th c. have been explored in front of the outer face of the northern fortress wall (fig. 1).
In the southern suburb, a part of a building with a rectangular plan, oriented E–W has been excavated during
the first archaeological surveys. A total of 12 grid-squares have been explored during this season (figs 4, 5). Several
construction stages of the building have been established without being accurately dated, due to the already disturbed
area and its poor state of preservation. The excavated materials date to the first half of the 13th c. The building should
be dated to the same period.
Some pits have been explored to the west of the building (fig. 4). Pit No. 3 has been partially excavated. The pit
can be dated to the 2nd–1st c. BC on the basis of two amphora handles with anepigraphic seals and a lead imitation coin
of Odessos. To the west, a later pit, AMS dated (1040–1210 cal. AD), has been dug into the southeast corner of grid-square
No. V9. A part of a ceramic caldron with holes for hanging on the inner side of the rim has been found among
the material, allowing this pit to be associated with a long-lasting Pecheneg settlement in the area.
In 2019, 173 coins have been registered. A specific series of Bulgarian imitative coins – type C, should be noted.
They suggest that in the area of the settlement or inside the fortress a mint for copper coins existed in the period 1210–1215.
археологически открития и разкопки през 2018 ARCHAEOLOGICAL DISCOVERIES AND EXCAVATIONS IN 2018, 2019
The archaeological research continued in the period between 01.06-31.07.2018 covering an area of ... more The archaeological research continued in the period between 01.06-31.07.2018 covering an area of 400 m2 (fig. 1).
Next to the northern wall were excavated sq. ХХIV and sq. ХХV (fig. 2). We finished the survey of dwelling №1 and the three furnaces. It may have been a whole complex made of the dwelling and a farm outbuilding. The construction is situated close to the north wall.. We found a great amount of metal melt residue, so we suppose that in the part of the outbuilding was developed metallurgical activity.
Sq. ХХIV 12 was excavated to the rock bottom. The foundations of the wall were founded on the rock, but they are thinner that the superconstruction.
In Sq. ХХIV 7 we researched two graves - №3 and №4. Grave №2 may be of a child around the age of 5-6 years in a pose imitating embryonic posture.
In sq. ХХV 10 was excavated dwelling № 3 which may have been builded after the walls of the fortress were demolished.
In sq.LIV3,4,7,8 we reached to the floors which date back to the Early Iron Age
110 години музейно дело в Бургас ИЗВЕСТИЯ НА БУРГАСКИЯ МУЗЕЙ Том VIII, Част I 110th anniversary of the Burgas museum BULLETIN OF THE BURGAS MUSEUM Volume VIII, Part I , 2022
Related to implementation of a project for rehabilitation of the railway road Plovdiv-Burgas,
it ... more Related to implementation of a project for rehabilitation of the railway road Plovdiv-Burgas,
it has been carried out an investigation of archaeological sites located in the section between Burgas
and Karnobat. That investigation was performed as a survey of both sides of the railway road and 154
polygons were formed with a total area of 5.35 sq.km. Total of 33 archaeological sites were registered
in them. Subject of the resent publication are those sites which fall in to the boundaries of Aitos
municipality (Maps 1-2).
Among the registered archaeological sites there are a settlement tell dated to the Chalcolithic – Site 22
(Table І. 1), open settlements dated to the Iron Age – Site 8 (Table ІІІ. 3-5) and Site 13 (Table ІV. 1-2),
as well as open settlements dated to the Ottoman period and National Revival period – Site 17 and Site
19 (Table ІV. 3).
Most numerous are the registered burial mounds – Site 9 (Table І. 2); Site 10 (Table І. 3); Sites 11 and
12 (Table І. 4) and (Table ІІІ. 4-7); Site 18 (Table І. 5); Site 14 (Table І. 6); Site 21; Site 30 (Table ІІ. 1)
and Site 32 (Table ІІ. 2).
Two mound necropolises were localized as well – Site 31 (Table ІІ. 3-5), which is situated at a river
terrace with height of about 30 m and with a visual connection to the neighboring burial mounds (Fig.
1) and Site 20 which encompasses three high burial mounds (Table ІІ. 6).
Известия на Регионален исторически музей -Велико Търново Том ХХХVІІІ Proceedings of the Regional Museum of History – Veliko TarnovoVol. ХХХVІІІ, 2023
During the archaeological excavations in the Franc Hissar district in Veliko Tarnovo
an interesti... more During the archaeological excavations in the Franc Hissar district in Veliko Tarnovo
an interesting find from the early 20th c. was discovered. It is a brass appliqué of elon-
gated elliptical shape with stamped decoration and an inscription (Fig. 1). The maximum
width in the central part is 8,5 cm. On its long sides, the plaque is framed on the inside
with an iron wire 0.25 cm in diameter, which appears to have a reinforcing and stabilizing
function. In the central part of the composition, the coat of arms of the United Kingdom
of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is set in a circle formed by a shallowly embossed
wreath, 5.2 cm in diameter. The motto of the Order of the Garter “Honi soit qui mal y
pense” is inscribed on the periphery of the shield. In the space between the coat of arms
and the wreath framing the central composition there is an inscription divided vertically
by two dots. In the upper part, the name of the manufacturer is written in big letters, C. R.
NOWILL, and its location, SHEFFIELD is on the lower part.
The NOWILL trademark was registered by Thomas Nowill (1676 – 1704) on 27
April 1700, as knives producer in Sheffield.
In 1874, the company set up a small import agency in Constantinople, which be-
came the main retail outlet for Nowill’s cutlery.
From 1900 onwards the company was managed by Charles Richard Nowill
(1850 – 1910).
It is actually his initials that are inscribed on the brass appliqué found in the Franc
Hissar district in Veliko Tarnovo, which dates it fairly accurately (1900 – 1914). Consider-
ing its form, it is reasonable to assume that it most likely decorated a wooden cutlery box.
One can only speculate as to how the cutlery set in question was acquired, but given
the Nowill Company’s substantial trade in Constantinople, it may have been imported
from there. Certainly, one cannot overlook the chances that it might have been obtained
as a consequence of the lively trade relations with Western Europe.
„ИВАНОВО - ЧЕРВЕН - ТЪРНОВ“ - НАСЛЕДСТВОТО НА СРЕДНОВЕКОВИЕТО „IVANOVO - CHERVEN - TARNOV“ - THE HERITAGE OF THE MIDDLE AGES, 2023
The current analysis of numis-matic material from the 15th-18th centuries, unearthed in the Cherv... more The current analysis of numis-matic material from the 15th-18th centuries, unearthed in the Cherven/Roustchouk kaza, aim-ing at tracking the trade links with European states in the said period, is a continuation of al-ready published research on the Turnovo and Pleven kazas. For the purpose of this study, nu-mismatic finds, which have been registered in the inventories of the Rousse Regional Museum of History are used, both previous-ly published and unpublished ones.
The territory on which the study focuses is within the bound-aries of Cherven kaza, which since the beginning of the 1600s had been referred to as Rousse (Roustchouk) kaza. Its borders are defined as per the map of Felix Kanitz from the end of the 19th century (Map 1). Statistical analysis is made of a total of 174 coins (Map 2), 17% of which have been holed, prob-ably subsequently used in pen-dants and other jewellery. Those are mainly silver coins of Stefan Batory and Sigismund III Vasa. The results of the statistical anal-ysis show that coins from Poland (The Polish-Lithuanian Com-monwealth) and the Belgian Confederation (The United Bel-gian States) are equal in number and constitute 62% of the total (Diagrams 1-3).
Third come the coins from Aus-tria (19%) (Diagram 4). In all administrative territories so far analysed in terms of numis-matic material from the same period it is obvious that these coins appeared late as a result of commercial connections. Their circulation is highest (largest percentage) in the 18th century (Diagram 7).
Next are the coins from Spain and Ragusa, each amounting to 6% (Diagrams 5-6).
The chronological analysis of the minted coins (Diagram 7) indicates that the peak for the Ragusa coins was in the 18th century, coins from Poland were prevailing in the 16th and the 17th centuries. Coins from Aus-tria appeared in the 16th century and reached widest distribution in the following century while coins from the United Belgian States are almost solely from the 18th century.
The overall chronological analy-sis shows that the largest num-ber of coins date from the 18th century (Diagram 8).
A lead lid designed for sealing drug jars is kept in the Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum o... more A lead lid designed for sealing drug jars is kept in the Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum of Zlatograd. The diameter of the lid is 23–24 mm and the side rim is 2 mm. The figure of a running wolf is engraved on the lid. An inscription in Italian is visible on the periphery of the lid: ALLA-SPECIARIA-( DE )-LUPO-VENEZIA (The wolf ’s pharmacy in Venice) (Fig. 1). The Venetian pharmacy of “Del Lupo” is not known for the production of theriac. However, it became famous with the production of Although “empiastro emolliente magistrale omogeneo”, translated as “homogenous softening cream”, known colloquially as “Cerroto del Sig. Antonio” or Segnor Antonio’s cream. The drug comprised resins, oils, litharge, turpentine and other minor ingredients. The pharmacy that produced the drug was registered on 13 April1682 in Saint Fillipo and Giacomo Square situated next to Saint Marko Square and was owned by the Corady family until 1745. The pharmacy is still in operation today, and it can be...
ГОДИШНИК НА ИСТОРИЧЕСКИЯ ФАКУЛТЕТ НА ВЕЛИКОТЪРНОВСКИЯ УНИВЕРСИТЕТ „СВ. СВ. КИРИЛ И МЕТОДИЙ“ Година V (XXXVII), 2021
This paper examines jewellery that is assumed to have been imported and of European origin. The s... more This paper examines jewellery that is assumed to have been imported and of European origin. The study is based on published data from archaeological excavations and on unpublished data from museum funds.
Нумизматика, СфрагиСтика и Епиграфика 16 , 2020
In 1967 a hoard of 237 golden Western European and Ottoman coins (323.21 gr.) was discovered in V... more In 1967 a hoard of 237 golden Western European and Ottoman coins (323.21 gr.) was discovered in Veliko Tarnovo. They can be divided into two groups: Western European – 23 pieces and Ottoman – 214 pieces (Diagram 1).
The first group is represented by coins of the Belgian Confederation (Netherlands and Utrecht), the Venetian Republic (Alvise Mocenigo, Paolo Renier, Ludovico Manin) and Austria (Maria Theresa and Franz II).
The Ottoman coins date from the time of Mustafa III (1757-1774), Abdul Hamid I (1774-1789), Selim III (1789-1807), Mustafa IV (1807-1808) and Mahmud II (1808-1839). The latest coins come from the 17th year of the last of all mentioned sultan’s reign – struck in 1823. They are respectively the terminus post quem for the deposition of the hoard (Diagram 2).
The coins from the hoard were collected in the course of 1757-1823, and the chronological analysis shows that this happened almost without interruption as the coins found in it were minted throughout this period (Diagram 3). The more active accumulation apparently began in the late 18th and the early 19th c., with the peak in the 1820s, when the assemblage of the treasure and its hiding was probably over. It is from this time that the largest amount of whole coins comes, apparently still involved in money circulation. Without rejecting the hypothesis of the concealment of this hoard in 1835 during the Velcho’s Conspiracy (Velchova Zavera), already launched by some earlier researchers, the periodic and continuous accumulation of the deposit rather suggests that its concealment took place soon after 1823.
Известия на Национален исторически музей – София, том ХХXIII, 2021
The present study aims at tracing the trade relations between European countries and the Bulgaria... more The present study aims at tracing the trade relations between European countries and the Bulgarian lands from the 15th to the 18th centu-ries concerning the Tarnovo kaza on the basis of the available numismatic material. The time span covers the period from the consolidation of the Ottoman rule in the Balkans in the 15th century to the attempted reforms of Selim III (1789 – 1807), when janissary revolts broke out in the empire and the Bulgarian lands were subjected to the Kardzhali raids. The territorial scope of the study is consist-ent with the boundaries of the Tarnovo kaza, part of the Nikopol sanjak. It is in its capital city that most of the numismatic finds were recorded, found both accidentally and during archaeological digs, which allows for a more complete and representa-tive statistical sample. Last but not least is the pos-sibility to trace through the numismatic data the continuity in the trade relations between Western Europe and Tarnovo before and after the conquest of the city.
Известия на Националния археологически институт. Сборник „В памет на проф. Йорданка Юрукова”, 2020
The work presents three lead lids for ampoules for the famous remedy of teriac coming from the re... more The work presents three lead lids for ampoules for the famous remedy of teriac coming from the region of Veliko Tarnovo. The first one belongs to the broadly spread production of the Venetian pharmacy At the Golden Head although of a type not yet known in the Bulgarian academic literature. It is rather damaged as the inscription and the representation on it are almost erased. One can distinguish a male head with a laurel wreath in a profile to the right being the trademark of Alla testa d’oro Pharmacy. The coat of arms of Venice is represented schematically and now barely visible in front of the head - the winged lion of St. Mark. A now damaged inscription in Latin runs along the periphery – (TER)IACA-(F)-ALLA-(TES)TA-(DOR)O-IN-VEN(E)T – reading in translation: Fine teriac from the At the Golden Head Pharmacy in Venice. In the outermost sector of the lid two pairs of laurel twigs have been represented in a vertical composition. Its diameter is 43 mm, and the preserved height of the side binding which is not threaded – 9 – 10 mm (fig. 1).
The second lid is a falsification roughly executed. It was discovered in 1982 during the excavations of the 40 Holy Martyrs Church (fig. 9). Its diameter is 42 mm. The binding by which it has closed the container is completely preserved, 7 mm in height. At its lowest sector one can clearly distinguish an in-ner edge serving to seal the ampoule. The central part displays a completely formless figure which prob-ably had to resemble a head to the right known by similar pieces. The reason to define this lid as a crude counterfeit of the At the Golden head Pharmacy’s production is the similar size – 41 mm and a fragment of the barely distinguishable inscription. The latter is hardly readable with the help of a microscope showing Latin letters written incorrectly altogether with Cyrillic letters – T_ _ IᴧOᴧT…DO_O…S. The known laurel wreath in a composition of vertically arranged twigs is presented highly stylized along the periphery.
The third lid here presented is in a very bad condition. It comes from the excavations on the Tsare-vets Hill in Veliko Tarnovo found in 1966. Its diameter is 41 mm. The binding is entirely missing, and the well preserved thickness of the lid is less than 2 mm (fig. 10). Unfortunately, it is almost entirely de-stroyed by corrosion as only a silhouette of a head to the right has remained barely perceptible. It is this circumstance that gives us grounds to relate the piece to the production series of the famous Venetian pharmacy. Due to the state it has been found in, it seems difficult to judge if the lid is original or a falsi-fication. The outline of the head is similar to the one on the originals although this is rather conditional.
Most probably the lids here discussed belong to the same production series of the At the Golden Head Pharmacy in Venice. They demonstrate both its original production and its rough imitation. This series often appeared in the Western Europe dating from the 17th – 18th c. in general.
Владетел, държава и църква през Средновековието на Балканите. Сб. с докл. от междунар. науч. конф., посветена на 60-годишнината на проф. д-р Пламен Павлов, 2020
Ryahovets is a medieval fortress situated 7 km north of the then capital of Bulgaria, Tarnovgrad... more Ryahovets is a medieval fortress situated 7 km north of the then capital of Bulgaria, Tarnovgrad (present-day Veliko Tarnovo), and 3 km west of today's town of Gorna Oryahovitsa.
For the first time archaeological research was conducted at the site in 1985–1991. In 2005, the research was renewed and has been going on since. In 2017, residential quarters were discovered, belonging to two of the last stages of habitation of the Ryahovets fortress, i.e. an A Stage (late) and an earlier B Stage, as per the newly established relative chronology of the site. Dating of the residential structures is based on the artifacts and other archaeological material unearthed during excavation works, the numismatic finds comprising the largest part of all. A statistical analysis of the numismatic material reveals that the more recent stage (A) begins approximately in the 2nd quarter of the 13th century, ending in 1257, while the beginning of stage (B) can be referred to the end of the 12th century, finishing during the second quarter of the 13th century.
Based on stratigraphical research, a hypothesis is offered that the later stage A began after the collapse of the curtain wall and its abandonment as a fortification. In front of the outer curtain wall façade a layer has been studied, possibly a rammed earth wall of dwelling № 1 (Stage B). Upon it lies another layer in which two medieval graves have been unearthed, possibly related to dwelling № 3 from Stage A, when the area beyond the fortification wall was also used as a necropolis (Chart 8). This evidence is in support of the hypothesis that during that period the curtain wall was no longer used as a permanent fortification.
ACTA MUSEI VARNAENSIS XIII-1. HISTORY AND CULTURE OF BULGARIA AND THE BULGARIANS (9TH – 19TH C.) Historical Research and Archaeological Contributions in Memory of Prof. Valentin Pletnyov, 2019
This article surveys all lids known so far from the Venetian pharmacy “Alla Testa dʼOro” stamped ... more This article surveys all lids known so far from the Venetian pharmacy “Alla Testa dʼOro” stamped with the year “1603”, which fall into two subtypes: original А.І.1. (Таб. І) and imitations А.ІІ.1 (Таб. ІІ). he lids from the second subtype are round lead plates measuring 35 mm in diameter, weighing about 20 – 25 g, often with a preserved side edge 5 – 8 mm wide. The man’s head in profile to the right, characteristic for this pharmacy, is depicted on the external surface in a circle of about 23 mm in diameter; the depiction is rather disproportionate and primitive with the Latin letter “V” behind the nape. A rough, unidentifiable symbol in the shape of an elongated hoop with rays at the top is placed in front of the face. Another letter – “k” – is outlined between the hoop and the chin. There is a horizontal line below this composition, which closes the bottom part of the raised circle. The year “1603” with a dot on either side, marked at different levels, is positioned rather asymmetrically and unevenly in this space. Outside this circle there is an irregular inscription with quite a few mistakes. The few sections that have survived intact, though illegible, contain Latin and Cyrillic letters, and make the following reading: (ТЕРIᴧСᴧE IINA·ᴧLᴧ·TEƧTᴧCIOPO·I·VVIIVГТ). Parts of a laurel wreath, together with the ribbons with which it is tied, can be recognized at places along the periphery around the inscription. The laurel wreath is fairly stylized and it is not possible to identify its type. On the inside, the lids often have a small bud in the centre – a technological defect in casting.
As early as 2003 Prof. Valentin Pletnyov published 6 lids of this subtype from Varna and he pointed out that five of them were absolutely identical not only with each other, but also with other lids from Bulgaria. This suggests that they must have been cast in the same mould and manufactured at the same place within a relatively short period of time. This observation has been validated through a specific graphic-comparative method by overlaying triangles on 6 reference points and measuring the inner angles. In summary the following conclusions can be drawn:
1. On the territory of present-day Bulgaria the famous cure-all theriac was traded in containers stamped with the seal of the Venetian pharmacy “Alla Testa dʼOro”.
2. The most commonly found lids for theriac containers from this pharmacy have the year “1603” stamped at the bottom, below a man’s head – 23 in total so far.
3. Based on metric, stylistic and sphragistics features this type is further subdivided into two – referred to below as “original” (3 pieces), (Таб. І), and “imitations” (20 pieces), (Таб. ІІ), designated accordingly as subtype А.І.1 and subtype А.І.2. The term “original” is rather hypothetically used and has to do with the more distinct image and the angle comparison with the only one, to the best of my knowledge, original lid. It is a matter of further investigations to ascertain whether these are originals manufactured in Venice or merely closer imitations.
4. Most of the theriac lids found in Bulgaria belong to the А.І.2 imitation subtype. They are rough imitations, fairly grotesque in appearance with uneven inscription of various letters and symbols. The text on all of the lids of this subtype is identical, exhibiting the same mistakes in the letters and the positioning of the inscription itself. Apart from the obviously repetitive stylistic and graphic features, the comparison of the angle deviations among several reference points proves that all the lids of this subtype were cast in similar moulds. They have been found in almost the whole of present-day Northern Bulgarian lands, where in fact most of the items were localized, not so many in South Bulgaria and in some of the ports along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast (Обр. 4). Single lids of this subtype, of uncertain origin, are on sale in various actions, and they may as well originate from Bulgaria (Таб. ІІІ). So far, the only collective find, containing some defective pieces as well, was found in the town of Varna.
5. These observations provide grounds in support of Valentin Pletnyov’s hypothesis that Varna among all places was the most likely manufacturing centre for this type of lids and that they could be dated to the 17th c. The dating, however, remains an open issue, as the determined chronological reference points span quite a longer period from the early 17th to 1815.
ANNUAL OF THE FACULTY OF HISTORY OF "ST. CYRILAND ST. METHODIUS" UNIVERSITY OF VELIKO TARNOVO, 2019
The subject of this study are two imitation caps for Theriac of the Alla Testa dʼOro Venetian pha... more The subject of this study are two imitation caps for Theriac of the Alla Testa dʼOro Venetian pharmacy. A photogrammetric comparative analysis was carried out. The obtained results indicate that they were made in same mould and most probably at one workshop.
STATISTICAL AND CHRONOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF THE COINS FROM RYAHOVETS MEDIEVAL FORTRESS
Iliyan Petra... more STATISTICAL AND CHRONOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF THE COINS FROM RYAHOVETS MEDIEVAL FORTRESS
Iliyan Petrakiev
(Summary)
The Medieval fortress of Ryahovets is located about 7 km north of the Metropolitan town of Tarnovgrad and 3 km west of the modern town of gorna Oryahovitsa. It rises on the northern slopes of Tarnovo heights.
After 23 years long pause, in 2015 the archaeological research was renewed. More than 500 coins were found there and alongside the stratigraphic observations they provide new data on the chronology of the site.
The work here presented discusses the coins from the Ryahovets fortress alone. 1028 coins have been analyzed coming both from the new and the older archaeological excavations. On the grounds of their provenance, they have been distinguished in 6 groups: the eastern gates, northern gates, western gates, northern fortress wall, interior of the fortress and church N 1(tabulation 1 inside the text). Considering the chronological indication, the following categories have been also differentiated: I. Antique ones and ii. medieval ones, 10th – 14th c., further on divided into sub-categories: i.1. pre-roman and I.2. Roman, 2nd – 6th c.; ii.1. Byzantine, 9th – 12th c.; II.2. Bulgarian imitations; ii.3. latin imitations; ii.4. Cut and damaged, 13th c.; II.5. Nicaean and Thessaloniki Emperies; ii.6. medieval Bulgarian coins; and ii.7. Coins from the 14th c.
The data obtained mark two main periods of intense life in the fortress: 3rd – 5th c. and the late 12th – first half of the 13th c. (Fig. 2 inside the text).
The 81 Roman coins found are dating from the 2nd to the 5th c. and represent the coinage of 22 emperors. Available numismatic data mark the most intensive commodity exchange period between the 4th and 5th c. (Fig. 3 inside the text).
The second main period of life is dating from the late 12th c. to 1260ies. The statistical data compared to the Metropolitan Tarnovgrad and some other larger towns show similar nature of coin circulation.
Data from the coins from the two successive phases of habitation studied show: later phase A – the second quarter of the 13th c. to 1257; and Earlier phase B – the late 12th – the second quarter of the 13th c. The phases of this medieval period of habitation are relatively short (Fig. 1 inside the text).
The problem of life in the fortress after the mid 13th c. has not been fully elucidated at this stage of research. Despite single coin finds from the second half of the 13th and 14th c., the interruption of life in the fortress during the last decades of the 13th c. was also noted by the first investigators. These conclusions are complemented by the latest archaeological studies proving the abrupt ending of the residential life in the fortress about 1257.
A lead lid designed for sealing drug jars is kept in the Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum o... more A lead lid designed for sealing drug jars is kept in the Archaeological and Ethnographic Museum of Zlato-grad. The diameter of the lid is 23–24 mm and the side rim is 2 mm. The figure of a running wolf is engraved on the lid. An inscription in Italian is visible on the periphery of the lid: ALLA-SPECIARIA-( DE )-LUPO-VENEZIA.
The subject of the work here presented is an unknown kind of a lead
lid for sealing of the famous... more The subject of the work here presented is an unknown kind of a lead
lid for sealing of the famous teriac medicine. It was found in 2012 within
a spill on the northern Ahtopol bay and now is on display in the History
of the Anchor Museum exposition in Ahtopol.
The lid belongs to the production of the most renowned Venetian
pharmacy Alla Testa d’Oro (At the head of gold). The lids bearing the
mark of the mentioned pharmacy come among the most widely spread
ones for the mass and continuous production.
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Papers by Iliyan Petrakiev
m2 was explored with focus on two sections (fig. 1): the western gate (fig.3) with parts from the western and northern
fortification walls (fig. 2), and a ditch in trench No. LIV. A total of 206 coins were found – 32 Roman coins (4th –
5th century) and 174 medieval coins, mainly dated 1204–1257. The numismatic material confirmed the stratigraphic
observations that there were two 13th century construction periods. No coins issued after 1244 were found. On one
hand this might be related to the Tatar invasion. On the other hand precise coin minting was in progress at that time
(1250–1257). The rest of the finds were mainly Late Iron Age fibulae (4th century BC), and belt appliques and an iron
knife dated to the 10th century.
(Fig. 1).
In area 1 (Fig. 2) series of isometric anomalies A1 were detected, which could indicate presence of different constructions
(kilns, burned down buildings, pits, etc.). Alongside those, we could track A2, which might be related to some
kind of linear construction (filled channel, ditch or linear structure). A3 and A4 were supposed to have geological origin,
A5 – A8 could have both anthropological (remains from linear constructions, channels, etc.) or geological origin.
In area 2 (Fig. 3), A21 was probably due to the presence of a metal object; A22, A23 and A24 are with geological
origin. There were a few weaker anomalies united in A25 and A26 coincided with a power line.
Area 3 was divided into two subsections by the linear anomaly A34 which was of geological origin, and which
crossed the area to the east from its central part. A31 – A33 might be caused by modern disruptions of the terrain.
The north fortification wall:
In 2020 a new sector was unearthed of the north fortification wall external side and the space in front of it, measuring about 25 m in length in sq. ХХVІ3,4 and ХХVІІ1,2,3 (Fig. 1-3).
In sq. ХХVІІ1,2 a new bastion-tower was unearthed at about 33.40 m east of tower No. 1 (Fig. 2-3). It has been established that the fortification facilities in this sector were constructed according to a certain algorithm regarding the distance between the towers. The distance between the two towers is almost the same as the distance between the NW corner of the fortress and the first tower. Tower No. 2 is also trapezoidal in shape though not so pronounced, covering 13.40 sq. m. It protrudes in front of the fortification wall at 2.90 m from the west face, and at 3.20 m from the east face, and its 4.60 m wide at its outermost northern part and 4.25 m at the curtainat its outermost northern part and 4.25 m at the curtain. The difference between the lengths of the western and eastern walls is probably due to the slight southward curve of the course of the fortress wall, east after tower No. 2 (Fig. 3).
The south suburb:
The eastern part of the building in sq. ССХХХVІІІ5,9 was examined. It was ascertained that this section had been almost completely destroyed and only the NE corner and part of the east wall of the structure survived. The thus measured total length of the building, together with the wall appended wall to the west, is 18.32 m. Unfortunately, as it is not possible to study the SE part of the building, currently we are not in a position to outline the exact plan and function of the building (Fig. 4-5).
West of the building, in squares ССХХХVІІ 9, 10 we continue the excavations of a dug-in structure No.3 (Fig. 4-5). It was found that the building was somewhat elongated in the NE-SW direction and this is presumably a ditch or any other sunken structure. In 2019 based on the two localized amphora handles with anepigraphic stamps and a lead imitation coin of Odessos, the structure was dated (2nd–1st centuries BC) The dating was confirmed also by the pottery and a similar amphora stamp unearthed in 2020.
In 2020, 169 finds were inventoried, of which 132 were coins, among them: 11 Roman (late 3rd–early 5th centuries), 4 Byzantine from the 12th c. and 113 from the 13th c., of which the most numerous are Latin imitations - 63, Bulgarian imitations - 6, the Kingdom of Thessalonica - 3, as well as 40 cut and depersonalized coins. Worth noting among them is a cut quarter of a copper coin of Tsar Ivan Assen II (1218 - 1241). Coins minted after 1257 have also been unearthed for the first time. These are two coins – type І and type V of Tsar Konstantin Assen (1257 – 1277).
m east of the northwest corner of the fortress a trapezoidal tower bastion has been revealed with an area of 4.35 m2 (figs
1, 2). The tower has been structurally connected to the fortress wall and was build with the same type of medium- and
large-size broken stones, bound with white mortar.
Four new graves from the 13th c. have been explored in front of the outer face of the northern fortress wall (fig. 1).
In the southern suburb, a part of a building with a rectangular plan, oriented E–W has been excavated during
the first archaeological surveys. A total of 12 grid-squares have been explored during this season (figs 4, 5). Several
construction stages of the building have been established without being accurately dated, due to the already disturbed
area and its poor state of preservation. The excavated materials date to the first half of the 13th c. The building should
be dated to the same period.
Some pits have been explored to the west of the building (fig. 4). Pit No. 3 has been partially excavated. The pit
can be dated to the 2nd–1st c. BC on the basis of two amphora handles with anepigraphic seals and a lead imitation coin
of Odessos. To the west, a later pit, AMS dated (1040–1210 cal. AD), has been dug into the southeast corner of grid-square
No. V9. A part of a ceramic caldron with holes for hanging on the inner side of the rim has been found among
the material, allowing this pit to be associated with a long-lasting Pecheneg settlement in the area.
In 2019, 173 coins have been registered. A specific series of Bulgarian imitative coins – type C, should be noted.
They suggest that in the area of the settlement or inside the fortress a mint for copper coins existed in the period 1210–1215.
Next to the northern wall were excavated sq. ХХIV and sq. ХХV (fig. 2). We finished the survey of dwelling №1 and the three furnaces. It may have been a whole complex made of the dwelling and a farm outbuilding. The construction is situated close to the north wall.. We found a great amount of metal melt residue, so we suppose that in the part of the outbuilding was developed metallurgical activity.
Sq. ХХIV 12 was excavated to the rock bottom. The foundations of the wall were founded on the rock, but they are thinner that the superconstruction.
In Sq. ХХIV 7 we researched two graves - №3 and №4. Grave №2 may be of a child around the age of 5-6 years in a pose imitating embryonic posture.
In sq. ХХV 10 was excavated dwelling № 3 which may have been builded after the walls of the fortress were demolished.
In sq.LIV3,4,7,8 we reached to the floors which date back to the Early Iron Age
it has been carried out an investigation of archaeological sites located in the section between Burgas
and Karnobat. That investigation was performed as a survey of both sides of the railway road and 154
polygons were formed with a total area of 5.35 sq.km. Total of 33 archaeological sites were registered
in them. Subject of the resent publication are those sites which fall in to the boundaries of Aitos
municipality (Maps 1-2).
Among the registered archaeological sites there are a settlement tell dated to the Chalcolithic – Site 22
(Table І. 1), open settlements dated to the Iron Age – Site 8 (Table ІІІ. 3-5) and Site 13 (Table ІV. 1-2),
as well as open settlements dated to the Ottoman period and National Revival period – Site 17 and Site
19 (Table ІV. 3).
Most numerous are the registered burial mounds – Site 9 (Table І. 2); Site 10 (Table І. 3); Sites 11 and
12 (Table І. 4) and (Table ІІІ. 4-7); Site 18 (Table І. 5); Site 14 (Table І. 6); Site 21; Site 30 (Table ІІ. 1)
and Site 32 (Table ІІ. 2).
Two mound necropolises were localized as well – Site 31 (Table ІІ. 3-5), which is situated at a river
terrace with height of about 30 m and with a visual connection to the neighboring burial mounds (Fig.
1) and Site 20 which encompasses three high burial mounds (Table ІІ. 6).
an interesting find from the early 20th c. was discovered. It is a brass appliqué of elon-
gated elliptical shape with stamped decoration and an inscription (Fig. 1). The maximum
width in the central part is 8,5 cm. On its long sides, the plaque is framed on the inside
with an iron wire 0.25 cm in diameter, which appears to have a reinforcing and stabilizing
function. In the central part of the composition, the coat of arms of the United Kingdom
of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is set in a circle formed by a shallowly embossed
wreath, 5.2 cm in diameter. The motto of the Order of the Garter “Honi soit qui mal y
pense” is inscribed on the periphery of the shield. In the space between the coat of arms
and the wreath framing the central composition there is an inscription divided vertically
by two dots. In the upper part, the name of the manufacturer is written in big letters, C. R.
NOWILL, and its location, SHEFFIELD is on the lower part.
The NOWILL trademark was registered by Thomas Nowill (1676 – 1704) on 27
April 1700, as knives producer in Sheffield.
In 1874, the company set up a small import agency in Constantinople, which be-
came the main retail outlet for Nowill’s cutlery.
From 1900 onwards the company was managed by Charles Richard Nowill
(1850 – 1910).
It is actually his initials that are inscribed on the brass appliqué found in the Franc
Hissar district in Veliko Tarnovo, which dates it fairly accurately (1900 – 1914). Consider-
ing its form, it is reasonable to assume that it most likely decorated a wooden cutlery box.
One can only speculate as to how the cutlery set in question was acquired, but given
the Nowill Company’s substantial trade in Constantinople, it may have been imported
from there. Certainly, one cannot overlook the chances that it might have been obtained
as a consequence of the lively trade relations with Western Europe.
The territory on which the study focuses is within the bound-aries of Cherven kaza, which since the beginning of the 1600s had been referred to as Rousse (Roustchouk) kaza. Its borders are defined as per the map of Felix Kanitz from the end of the 19th century (Map 1). Statistical analysis is made of a total of 174 coins (Map 2), 17% of which have been holed, prob-ably subsequently used in pen-dants and other jewellery. Those are mainly silver coins of Stefan Batory and Sigismund III Vasa. The results of the statistical anal-ysis show that coins from Poland (The Polish-Lithuanian Com-monwealth) and the Belgian Confederation (The United Bel-gian States) are equal in number and constitute 62% of the total (Diagrams 1-3).
Third come the coins from Aus-tria (19%) (Diagram 4). In all administrative territories so far analysed in terms of numis-matic material from the same period it is obvious that these coins appeared late as a result of commercial connections. Their circulation is highest (largest percentage) in the 18th century (Diagram 7).
Next are the coins from Spain and Ragusa, each amounting to 6% (Diagrams 5-6).
The chronological analysis of the minted coins (Diagram 7) indicates that the peak for the Ragusa coins was in the 18th century, coins from Poland were prevailing in the 16th and the 17th centuries. Coins from Aus-tria appeared in the 16th century and reached widest distribution in the following century while coins from the United Belgian States are almost solely from the 18th century.
The overall chronological analy-sis shows that the largest num-ber of coins date from the 18th century (Diagram 8).
The first group is represented by coins of the Belgian Confederation (Netherlands and Utrecht), the Venetian Republic (Alvise Mocenigo, Paolo Renier, Ludovico Manin) and Austria (Maria Theresa and Franz II).
The Ottoman coins date from the time of Mustafa III (1757-1774), Abdul Hamid I (1774-1789), Selim III (1789-1807), Mustafa IV (1807-1808) and Mahmud II (1808-1839). The latest coins come from the 17th year of the last of all mentioned sultan’s reign – struck in 1823. They are respectively the terminus post quem for the deposition of the hoard (Diagram 2).
The coins from the hoard were collected in the course of 1757-1823, and the chronological analysis shows that this happened almost without interruption as the coins found in it were minted throughout this period (Diagram 3). The more active accumulation apparently began in the late 18th and the early 19th c., with the peak in the 1820s, when the assemblage of the treasure and its hiding was probably over. It is from this time that the largest amount of whole coins comes, apparently still involved in money circulation. Without rejecting the hypothesis of the concealment of this hoard in 1835 during the Velcho’s Conspiracy (Velchova Zavera), already launched by some earlier researchers, the periodic and continuous accumulation of the deposit rather suggests that its concealment took place soon after 1823.
The second lid is a falsification roughly executed. It was discovered in 1982 during the excavations of the 40 Holy Martyrs Church (fig. 9). Its diameter is 42 mm. The binding by which it has closed the container is completely preserved, 7 mm in height. At its lowest sector one can clearly distinguish an in-ner edge serving to seal the ampoule. The central part displays a completely formless figure which prob-ably had to resemble a head to the right known by similar pieces. The reason to define this lid as a crude counterfeit of the At the Golden head Pharmacy’s production is the similar size – 41 mm and a fragment of the barely distinguishable inscription. The latter is hardly readable with the help of a microscope showing Latin letters written incorrectly altogether with Cyrillic letters – T_ _ IᴧOᴧT…DO_O…S. The known laurel wreath in a composition of vertically arranged twigs is presented highly stylized along the periphery.
The third lid here presented is in a very bad condition. It comes from the excavations on the Tsare-vets Hill in Veliko Tarnovo found in 1966. Its diameter is 41 mm. The binding is entirely missing, and the well preserved thickness of the lid is less than 2 mm (fig. 10). Unfortunately, it is almost entirely de-stroyed by corrosion as only a silhouette of a head to the right has remained barely perceptible. It is this circumstance that gives us grounds to relate the piece to the production series of the famous Venetian pharmacy. Due to the state it has been found in, it seems difficult to judge if the lid is original or a falsi-fication. The outline of the head is similar to the one on the originals although this is rather conditional.
Most probably the lids here discussed belong to the same production series of the At the Golden Head Pharmacy in Venice. They demonstrate both its original production and its rough imitation. This series often appeared in the Western Europe dating from the 17th – 18th c. in general.
For the first time archaeological research was conducted at the site in 1985–1991. In 2005, the research was renewed and has been going on since. In 2017, residential quarters were discovered, belonging to two of the last stages of habitation of the Ryahovets fortress, i.e. an A Stage (late) and an earlier B Stage, as per the newly established relative chronology of the site. Dating of the residential structures is based on the artifacts and other archaeological material unearthed during excavation works, the numismatic finds comprising the largest part of all. A statistical analysis of the numismatic material reveals that the more recent stage (A) begins approximately in the 2nd quarter of the 13th century, ending in 1257, while the beginning of stage (B) can be referred to the end of the 12th century, finishing during the second quarter of the 13th century.
Based on stratigraphical research, a hypothesis is offered that the later stage A began after the collapse of the curtain wall and its abandonment as a fortification. In front of the outer curtain wall façade a layer has been studied, possibly a rammed earth wall of dwelling № 1 (Stage B). Upon it lies another layer in which two medieval graves have been unearthed, possibly related to dwelling № 3 from Stage A, when the area beyond the fortification wall was also used as a necropolis (Chart 8). This evidence is in support of the hypothesis that during that period the curtain wall was no longer used as a permanent fortification.
As early as 2003 Prof. Valentin Pletnyov published 6 lids of this subtype from Varna and he pointed out that five of them were absolutely identical not only with each other, but also with other lids from Bulgaria. This suggests that they must have been cast in the same mould and manufactured at the same place within a relatively short period of time. This observation has been validated through a specific graphic-comparative method by overlaying triangles on 6 reference points and measuring the inner angles. In summary the following conclusions can be drawn:
1. On the territory of present-day Bulgaria the famous cure-all theriac was traded in containers stamped with the seal of the Venetian pharmacy “Alla Testa dʼOro”.
2. The most commonly found lids for theriac containers from this pharmacy have the year “1603” stamped at the bottom, below a man’s head – 23 in total so far.
3. Based on metric, stylistic and sphragistics features this type is further subdivided into two – referred to below as “original” (3 pieces), (Таб. І), and “imitations” (20 pieces), (Таб. ІІ), designated accordingly as subtype А.І.1 and subtype А.І.2. The term “original” is rather hypothetically used and has to do with the more distinct image and the angle comparison with the only one, to the best of my knowledge, original lid. It is a matter of further investigations to ascertain whether these are originals manufactured in Venice or merely closer imitations.
4. Most of the theriac lids found in Bulgaria belong to the А.І.2 imitation subtype. They are rough imitations, fairly grotesque in appearance with uneven inscription of various letters and symbols. The text on all of the lids of this subtype is identical, exhibiting the same mistakes in the letters and the positioning of the inscription itself. Apart from the obviously repetitive stylistic and graphic features, the comparison of the angle deviations among several reference points proves that all the lids of this subtype were cast in similar moulds. They have been found in almost the whole of present-day Northern Bulgarian lands, where in fact most of the items were localized, not so many in South Bulgaria and in some of the ports along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast (Обр. 4). Single lids of this subtype, of uncertain origin, are on sale in various actions, and they may as well originate from Bulgaria (Таб. ІІІ). So far, the only collective find, containing some defective pieces as well, was found in the town of Varna.
5. These observations provide grounds in support of Valentin Pletnyov’s hypothesis that Varna among all places was the most likely manufacturing centre for this type of lids and that they could be dated to the 17th c. The dating, however, remains an open issue, as the determined chronological reference points span quite a longer period from the early 17th to 1815.
Iliyan Petrakiev
(Summary)
The Medieval fortress of Ryahovets is located about 7 km north of the Metropolitan town of Tarnovgrad and 3 km west of the modern town of gorna Oryahovitsa. It rises on the northern slopes of Tarnovo heights.
After 23 years long pause, in 2015 the archaeological research was renewed. More than 500 coins were found there and alongside the stratigraphic observations they provide new data on the chronology of the site.
The work here presented discusses the coins from the Ryahovets fortress alone. 1028 coins have been analyzed coming both from the new and the older archaeological excavations. On the grounds of their provenance, they have been distinguished in 6 groups: the eastern gates, northern gates, western gates, northern fortress wall, interior of the fortress and church N 1(tabulation 1 inside the text). Considering the chronological indication, the following categories have been also differentiated: I. Antique ones and ii. medieval ones, 10th – 14th c., further on divided into sub-categories: i.1. pre-roman and I.2. Roman, 2nd – 6th c.; ii.1. Byzantine, 9th – 12th c.; II.2. Bulgarian imitations; ii.3. latin imitations; ii.4. Cut and damaged, 13th c.; II.5. Nicaean and Thessaloniki Emperies; ii.6. medieval Bulgarian coins; and ii.7. Coins from the 14th c.
The data obtained mark two main periods of intense life in the fortress: 3rd – 5th c. and the late 12th – first half of the 13th c. (Fig. 2 inside the text).
The 81 Roman coins found are dating from the 2nd to the 5th c. and represent the coinage of 22 emperors. Available numismatic data mark the most intensive commodity exchange period between the 4th and 5th c. (Fig. 3 inside the text).
The second main period of life is dating from the late 12th c. to 1260ies. The statistical data compared to the Metropolitan Tarnovgrad and some other larger towns show similar nature of coin circulation.
Data from the coins from the two successive phases of habitation studied show: later phase A – the second quarter of the 13th c. to 1257; and Earlier phase B – the late 12th – the second quarter of the 13th c. The phases of this medieval period of habitation are relatively short (Fig. 1 inside the text).
The problem of life in the fortress after the mid 13th c. has not been fully elucidated at this stage of research. Despite single coin finds from the second half of the 13th and 14th c., the interruption of life in the fortress during the last decades of the 13th c. was also noted by the first investigators. These conclusions are complemented by the latest archaeological studies proving the abrupt ending of the residential life in the fortress about 1257.
lid for sealing of the famous teriac medicine. It was found in 2012 within
a spill on the northern Ahtopol bay and now is on display in the History
of the Anchor Museum exposition in Ahtopol.
The lid belongs to the production of the most renowned Venetian
pharmacy Alla Testa d’Oro (At the head of gold). The lids bearing the
mark of the mentioned pharmacy come among the most widely spread
ones for the mass and continuous production.
m2 was explored with focus on two sections (fig. 1): the western gate (fig.3) with parts from the western and northern
fortification walls (fig. 2), and a ditch in trench No. LIV. A total of 206 coins were found – 32 Roman coins (4th –
5th century) and 174 medieval coins, mainly dated 1204–1257. The numismatic material confirmed the stratigraphic
observations that there were two 13th century construction periods. No coins issued after 1244 were found. On one
hand this might be related to the Tatar invasion. On the other hand precise coin minting was in progress at that time
(1250–1257). The rest of the finds were mainly Late Iron Age fibulae (4th century BC), and belt appliques and an iron
knife dated to the 10th century.
(Fig. 1).
In area 1 (Fig. 2) series of isometric anomalies A1 were detected, which could indicate presence of different constructions
(kilns, burned down buildings, pits, etc.). Alongside those, we could track A2, which might be related to some
kind of linear construction (filled channel, ditch or linear structure). A3 and A4 were supposed to have geological origin,
A5 – A8 could have both anthropological (remains from linear constructions, channels, etc.) or geological origin.
In area 2 (Fig. 3), A21 was probably due to the presence of a metal object; A22, A23 and A24 are with geological
origin. There were a few weaker anomalies united in A25 and A26 coincided with a power line.
Area 3 was divided into two subsections by the linear anomaly A34 which was of geological origin, and which
crossed the area to the east from its central part. A31 – A33 might be caused by modern disruptions of the terrain.
The north fortification wall:
In 2020 a new sector was unearthed of the north fortification wall external side and the space in front of it, measuring about 25 m in length in sq. ХХVІ3,4 and ХХVІІ1,2,3 (Fig. 1-3).
In sq. ХХVІІ1,2 a new bastion-tower was unearthed at about 33.40 m east of tower No. 1 (Fig. 2-3). It has been established that the fortification facilities in this sector were constructed according to a certain algorithm regarding the distance between the towers. The distance between the two towers is almost the same as the distance between the NW corner of the fortress and the first tower. Tower No. 2 is also trapezoidal in shape though not so pronounced, covering 13.40 sq. m. It protrudes in front of the fortification wall at 2.90 m from the west face, and at 3.20 m from the east face, and its 4.60 m wide at its outermost northern part and 4.25 m at the curtainat its outermost northern part and 4.25 m at the curtain. The difference between the lengths of the western and eastern walls is probably due to the slight southward curve of the course of the fortress wall, east after tower No. 2 (Fig. 3).
The south suburb:
The eastern part of the building in sq. ССХХХVІІІ5,9 was examined. It was ascertained that this section had been almost completely destroyed and only the NE corner and part of the east wall of the structure survived. The thus measured total length of the building, together with the wall appended wall to the west, is 18.32 m. Unfortunately, as it is not possible to study the SE part of the building, currently we are not in a position to outline the exact plan and function of the building (Fig. 4-5).
West of the building, in squares ССХХХVІІ 9, 10 we continue the excavations of a dug-in structure No.3 (Fig. 4-5). It was found that the building was somewhat elongated in the NE-SW direction and this is presumably a ditch or any other sunken structure. In 2019 based on the two localized amphora handles with anepigraphic stamps and a lead imitation coin of Odessos, the structure was dated (2nd–1st centuries BC) The dating was confirmed also by the pottery and a similar amphora stamp unearthed in 2020.
In 2020, 169 finds were inventoried, of which 132 were coins, among them: 11 Roman (late 3rd–early 5th centuries), 4 Byzantine from the 12th c. and 113 from the 13th c., of which the most numerous are Latin imitations - 63, Bulgarian imitations - 6, the Kingdom of Thessalonica - 3, as well as 40 cut and depersonalized coins. Worth noting among them is a cut quarter of a copper coin of Tsar Ivan Assen II (1218 - 1241). Coins minted after 1257 have also been unearthed for the first time. These are two coins – type І and type V of Tsar Konstantin Assen (1257 – 1277).
m east of the northwest corner of the fortress a trapezoidal tower bastion has been revealed with an area of 4.35 m2 (figs
1, 2). The tower has been structurally connected to the fortress wall and was build with the same type of medium- and
large-size broken stones, bound with white mortar.
Four new graves from the 13th c. have been explored in front of the outer face of the northern fortress wall (fig. 1).
In the southern suburb, a part of a building with a rectangular plan, oriented E–W has been excavated during
the first archaeological surveys. A total of 12 grid-squares have been explored during this season (figs 4, 5). Several
construction stages of the building have been established without being accurately dated, due to the already disturbed
area and its poor state of preservation. The excavated materials date to the first half of the 13th c. The building should
be dated to the same period.
Some pits have been explored to the west of the building (fig. 4). Pit No. 3 has been partially excavated. The pit
can be dated to the 2nd–1st c. BC on the basis of two amphora handles with anepigraphic seals and a lead imitation coin
of Odessos. To the west, a later pit, AMS dated (1040–1210 cal. AD), has been dug into the southeast corner of grid-square
No. V9. A part of a ceramic caldron with holes for hanging on the inner side of the rim has been found among
the material, allowing this pit to be associated with a long-lasting Pecheneg settlement in the area.
In 2019, 173 coins have been registered. A specific series of Bulgarian imitative coins – type C, should be noted.
They suggest that in the area of the settlement or inside the fortress a mint for copper coins existed in the period 1210–1215.
Next to the northern wall were excavated sq. ХХIV and sq. ХХV (fig. 2). We finished the survey of dwelling №1 and the three furnaces. It may have been a whole complex made of the dwelling and a farm outbuilding. The construction is situated close to the north wall.. We found a great amount of metal melt residue, so we suppose that in the part of the outbuilding was developed metallurgical activity.
Sq. ХХIV 12 was excavated to the rock bottom. The foundations of the wall were founded on the rock, but they are thinner that the superconstruction.
In Sq. ХХIV 7 we researched two graves - №3 and №4. Grave №2 may be of a child around the age of 5-6 years in a pose imitating embryonic posture.
In sq. ХХV 10 was excavated dwelling № 3 which may have been builded after the walls of the fortress were demolished.
In sq.LIV3,4,7,8 we reached to the floors which date back to the Early Iron Age
it has been carried out an investigation of archaeological sites located in the section between Burgas
and Karnobat. That investigation was performed as a survey of both sides of the railway road and 154
polygons were formed with a total area of 5.35 sq.km. Total of 33 archaeological sites were registered
in them. Subject of the resent publication are those sites which fall in to the boundaries of Aitos
municipality (Maps 1-2).
Among the registered archaeological sites there are a settlement tell dated to the Chalcolithic – Site 22
(Table І. 1), open settlements dated to the Iron Age – Site 8 (Table ІІІ. 3-5) and Site 13 (Table ІV. 1-2),
as well as open settlements dated to the Ottoman period and National Revival period – Site 17 and Site
19 (Table ІV. 3).
Most numerous are the registered burial mounds – Site 9 (Table І. 2); Site 10 (Table І. 3); Sites 11 and
12 (Table І. 4) and (Table ІІІ. 4-7); Site 18 (Table І. 5); Site 14 (Table І. 6); Site 21; Site 30 (Table ІІ. 1)
and Site 32 (Table ІІ. 2).
Two mound necropolises were localized as well – Site 31 (Table ІІ. 3-5), which is situated at a river
terrace with height of about 30 m and with a visual connection to the neighboring burial mounds (Fig.
1) and Site 20 which encompasses three high burial mounds (Table ІІ. 6).
an interesting find from the early 20th c. was discovered. It is a brass appliqué of elon-
gated elliptical shape with stamped decoration and an inscription (Fig. 1). The maximum
width in the central part is 8,5 cm. On its long sides, the plaque is framed on the inside
with an iron wire 0.25 cm in diameter, which appears to have a reinforcing and stabilizing
function. In the central part of the composition, the coat of arms of the United Kingdom
of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is set in a circle formed by a shallowly embossed
wreath, 5.2 cm in diameter. The motto of the Order of the Garter “Honi soit qui mal y
pense” is inscribed on the periphery of the shield. In the space between the coat of arms
and the wreath framing the central composition there is an inscription divided vertically
by two dots. In the upper part, the name of the manufacturer is written in big letters, C. R.
NOWILL, and its location, SHEFFIELD is on the lower part.
The NOWILL trademark was registered by Thomas Nowill (1676 – 1704) on 27
April 1700, as knives producer in Sheffield.
In 1874, the company set up a small import agency in Constantinople, which be-
came the main retail outlet for Nowill’s cutlery.
From 1900 onwards the company was managed by Charles Richard Nowill
(1850 – 1910).
It is actually his initials that are inscribed on the brass appliqué found in the Franc
Hissar district in Veliko Tarnovo, which dates it fairly accurately (1900 – 1914). Consider-
ing its form, it is reasonable to assume that it most likely decorated a wooden cutlery box.
One can only speculate as to how the cutlery set in question was acquired, but given
the Nowill Company’s substantial trade in Constantinople, it may have been imported
from there. Certainly, one cannot overlook the chances that it might have been obtained
as a consequence of the lively trade relations with Western Europe.
The territory on which the study focuses is within the bound-aries of Cherven kaza, which since the beginning of the 1600s had been referred to as Rousse (Roustchouk) kaza. Its borders are defined as per the map of Felix Kanitz from the end of the 19th century (Map 1). Statistical analysis is made of a total of 174 coins (Map 2), 17% of which have been holed, prob-ably subsequently used in pen-dants and other jewellery. Those are mainly silver coins of Stefan Batory and Sigismund III Vasa. The results of the statistical anal-ysis show that coins from Poland (The Polish-Lithuanian Com-monwealth) and the Belgian Confederation (The United Bel-gian States) are equal in number and constitute 62% of the total (Diagrams 1-3).
Third come the coins from Aus-tria (19%) (Diagram 4). In all administrative territories so far analysed in terms of numis-matic material from the same period it is obvious that these coins appeared late as a result of commercial connections. Their circulation is highest (largest percentage) in the 18th century (Diagram 7).
Next are the coins from Spain and Ragusa, each amounting to 6% (Diagrams 5-6).
The chronological analysis of the minted coins (Diagram 7) indicates that the peak for the Ragusa coins was in the 18th century, coins from Poland were prevailing in the 16th and the 17th centuries. Coins from Aus-tria appeared in the 16th century and reached widest distribution in the following century while coins from the United Belgian States are almost solely from the 18th century.
The overall chronological analy-sis shows that the largest num-ber of coins date from the 18th century (Diagram 8).
The first group is represented by coins of the Belgian Confederation (Netherlands and Utrecht), the Venetian Republic (Alvise Mocenigo, Paolo Renier, Ludovico Manin) and Austria (Maria Theresa and Franz II).
The Ottoman coins date from the time of Mustafa III (1757-1774), Abdul Hamid I (1774-1789), Selim III (1789-1807), Mustafa IV (1807-1808) and Mahmud II (1808-1839). The latest coins come from the 17th year of the last of all mentioned sultan’s reign – struck in 1823. They are respectively the terminus post quem for the deposition of the hoard (Diagram 2).
The coins from the hoard were collected in the course of 1757-1823, and the chronological analysis shows that this happened almost without interruption as the coins found in it were minted throughout this period (Diagram 3). The more active accumulation apparently began in the late 18th and the early 19th c., with the peak in the 1820s, when the assemblage of the treasure and its hiding was probably over. It is from this time that the largest amount of whole coins comes, apparently still involved in money circulation. Without rejecting the hypothesis of the concealment of this hoard in 1835 during the Velcho’s Conspiracy (Velchova Zavera), already launched by some earlier researchers, the periodic and continuous accumulation of the deposit rather suggests that its concealment took place soon after 1823.
The second lid is a falsification roughly executed. It was discovered in 1982 during the excavations of the 40 Holy Martyrs Church (fig. 9). Its diameter is 42 mm. The binding by which it has closed the container is completely preserved, 7 mm in height. At its lowest sector one can clearly distinguish an in-ner edge serving to seal the ampoule. The central part displays a completely formless figure which prob-ably had to resemble a head to the right known by similar pieces. The reason to define this lid as a crude counterfeit of the At the Golden head Pharmacy’s production is the similar size – 41 mm and a fragment of the barely distinguishable inscription. The latter is hardly readable with the help of a microscope showing Latin letters written incorrectly altogether with Cyrillic letters – T_ _ IᴧOᴧT…DO_O…S. The known laurel wreath in a composition of vertically arranged twigs is presented highly stylized along the periphery.
The third lid here presented is in a very bad condition. It comes from the excavations on the Tsare-vets Hill in Veliko Tarnovo found in 1966. Its diameter is 41 mm. The binding is entirely missing, and the well preserved thickness of the lid is less than 2 mm (fig. 10). Unfortunately, it is almost entirely de-stroyed by corrosion as only a silhouette of a head to the right has remained barely perceptible. It is this circumstance that gives us grounds to relate the piece to the production series of the famous Venetian pharmacy. Due to the state it has been found in, it seems difficult to judge if the lid is original or a falsi-fication. The outline of the head is similar to the one on the originals although this is rather conditional.
Most probably the lids here discussed belong to the same production series of the At the Golden Head Pharmacy in Venice. They demonstrate both its original production and its rough imitation. This series often appeared in the Western Europe dating from the 17th – 18th c. in general.
For the first time archaeological research was conducted at the site in 1985–1991. In 2005, the research was renewed and has been going on since. In 2017, residential quarters were discovered, belonging to two of the last stages of habitation of the Ryahovets fortress, i.e. an A Stage (late) and an earlier B Stage, as per the newly established relative chronology of the site. Dating of the residential structures is based on the artifacts and other archaeological material unearthed during excavation works, the numismatic finds comprising the largest part of all. A statistical analysis of the numismatic material reveals that the more recent stage (A) begins approximately in the 2nd quarter of the 13th century, ending in 1257, while the beginning of stage (B) can be referred to the end of the 12th century, finishing during the second quarter of the 13th century.
Based on stratigraphical research, a hypothesis is offered that the later stage A began after the collapse of the curtain wall and its abandonment as a fortification. In front of the outer curtain wall façade a layer has been studied, possibly a rammed earth wall of dwelling № 1 (Stage B). Upon it lies another layer in which two medieval graves have been unearthed, possibly related to dwelling № 3 from Stage A, when the area beyond the fortification wall was also used as a necropolis (Chart 8). This evidence is in support of the hypothesis that during that period the curtain wall was no longer used as a permanent fortification.
As early as 2003 Prof. Valentin Pletnyov published 6 lids of this subtype from Varna and he pointed out that five of them were absolutely identical not only with each other, but also with other lids from Bulgaria. This suggests that they must have been cast in the same mould and manufactured at the same place within a relatively short period of time. This observation has been validated through a specific graphic-comparative method by overlaying triangles on 6 reference points and measuring the inner angles. In summary the following conclusions can be drawn:
1. On the territory of present-day Bulgaria the famous cure-all theriac was traded in containers stamped with the seal of the Venetian pharmacy “Alla Testa dʼOro”.
2. The most commonly found lids for theriac containers from this pharmacy have the year “1603” stamped at the bottom, below a man’s head – 23 in total so far.
3. Based on metric, stylistic and sphragistics features this type is further subdivided into two – referred to below as “original” (3 pieces), (Таб. І), and “imitations” (20 pieces), (Таб. ІІ), designated accordingly as subtype А.І.1 and subtype А.І.2. The term “original” is rather hypothetically used and has to do with the more distinct image and the angle comparison with the only one, to the best of my knowledge, original lid. It is a matter of further investigations to ascertain whether these are originals manufactured in Venice or merely closer imitations.
4. Most of the theriac lids found in Bulgaria belong to the А.І.2 imitation subtype. They are rough imitations, fairly grotesque in appearance with uneven inscription of various letters and symbols. The text on all of the lids of this subtype is identical, exhibiting the same mistakes in the letters and the positioning of the inscription itself. Apart from the obviously repetitive stylistic and graphic features, the comparison of the angle deviations among several reference points proves that all the lids of this subtype were cast in similar moulds. They have been found in almost the whole of present-day Northern Bulgarian lands, where in fact most of the items were localized, not so many in South Bulgaria and in some of the ports along the Bulgarian Black Sea coast (Обр. 4). Single lids of this subtype, of uncertain origin, are on sale in various actions, and they may as well originate from Bulgaria (Таб. ІІІ). So far, the only collective find, containing some defective pieces as well, was found in the town of Varna.
5. These observations provide grounds in support of Valentin Pletnyov’s hypothesis that Varna among all places was the most likely manufacturing centre for this type of lids and that they could be dated to the 17th c. The dating, however, remains an open issue, as the determined chronological reference points span quite a longer period from the early 17th to 1815.
Iliyan Petrakiev
(Summary)
The Medieval fortress of Ryahovets is located about 7 km north of the Metropolitan town of Tarnovgrad and 3 km west of the modern town of gorna Oryahovitsa. It rises on the northern slopes of Tarnovo heights.
After 23 years long pause, in 2015 the archaeological research was renewed. More than 500 coins were found there and alongside the stratigraphic observations they provide new data on the chronology of the site.
The work here presented discusses the coins from the Ryahovets fortress alone. 1028 coins have been analyzed coming both from the new and the older archaeological excavations. On the grounds of their provenance, they have been distinguished in 6 groups: the eastern gates, northern gates, western gates, northern fortress wall, interior of the fortress and church N 1(tabulation 1 inside the text). Considering the chronological indication, the following categories have been also differentiated: I. Antique ones and ii. medieval ones, 10th – 14th c., further on divided into sub-categories: i.1. pre-roman and I.2. Roman, 2nd – 6th c.; ii.1. Byzantine, 9th – 12th c.; II.2. Bulgarian imitations; ii.3. latin imitations; ii.4. Cut and damaged, 13th c.; II.5. Nicaean and Thessaloniki Emperies; ii.6. medieval Bulgarian coins; and ii.7. Coins from the 14th c.
The data obtained mark two main periods of intense life in the fortress: 3rd – 5th c. and the late 12th – first half of the 13th c. (Fig. 2 inside the text).
The 81 Roman coins found are dating from the 2nd to the 5th c. and represent the coinage of 22 emperors. Available numismatic data mark the most intensive commodity exchange period between the 4th and 5th c. (Fig. 3 inside the text).
The second main period of life is dating from the late 12th c. to 1260ies. The statistical data compared to the Metropolitan Tarnovgrad and some other larger towns show similar nature of coin circulation.
Data from the coins from the two successive phases of habitation studied show: later phase A – the second quarter of the 13th c. to 1257; and Earlier phase B – the late 12th – the second quarter of the 13th c. The phases of this medieval period of habitation are relatively short (Fig. 1 inside the text).
The problem of life in the fortress after the mid 13th c. has not been fully elucidated at this stage of research. Despite single coin finds from the second half of the 13th and 14th c., the interruption of life in the fortress during the last decades of the 13th c. was also noted by the first investigators. These conclusions are complemented by the latest archaeological studies proving the abrupt ending of the residential life in the fortress about 1257.
lid for sealing of the famous teriac medicine. It was found in 2012 within
a spill on the northern Ahtopol bay and now is on display in the History
of the Anchor Museum exposition in Ahtopol.
The lid belongs to the production of the most renowned Venetian
pharmacy Alla Testa d’Oro (At the head of gold). The lids bearing the
mark of the mentioned pharmacy come among the most widely spread
ones for the mass and continuous production.