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Abstract

The article provides a detailed description as well as the classifi cation of stone projectiles found during the archeological excavations at the Belinskoye site in 1996–2017. The classifi cation is the typology of stone projectiles proposed by D.V. Zhuravlev and G.A. Camelina. In accordance with the typology, all stone projectiles discovered at the site of ancient settlement are divided into four types, depending on their weight. The fi rst type is the largest number of projectiles (29 pieces). They are of low weight, and are therefore made for throwing with the help of sling and its derivatives. Projectiles related to types 2, 3, 4 have a greater weight and size and were intended for throwing with the help of stone-throwing machines. The total dating of projectiles varies from the fi rst quarter of the second to the beginning of the fi fth century AD. The data presented in the article make it possible to draw a number of conclusions on the history of the Belinskoye fortress and the Bosporan Kingdom. Being a frontier fortress in the European Bosporan defense system, the Belinskoye settlement was invaded by the Goths in the 3rd century AD. Stone projectiles of considerable size allow us to conclude that during the assault propelling machines were used, but there is no way to determine whether they were used by attacking or defending troops.

Keywords

Archaeology, stone projectiles, throwing machines, sling, Bosporus, Belinskoye settlement, the Goths.

Ivan A. Astakhov. Tula State Lev Tolstoy Pedagogical University, Tula, Russia, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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