The organogenic layer in kurgan 5 (Chimishliya district, Republic of Moldova): composition and origin

The paper describes results of excavating grave 12, kurgan 5, located near the northern outskirts of the town of Chimishliya (Republic of Moldova). According to the elements of the funerary rite, the grave is attributed to the Belozerka culture. The construction design of the burial chamber and funerary offerings suggest a high rank of the deceased person. The organogenic layer discovered above the southern discharge of the grave was studied by pollen and spherulitic analyses. The layered structure of the sample, presence of a large number of pollen clumps and spherulites indicate that the organogenic layer consisted of manure. The pollen spectrum suggests that the burial was made in the period from May to July. The erection of wooden structures and the use of manure in the funerary construction, most likely, indicate that this construction imitates the dwelling and its interior that the deceased person was used to.