Unique cult complex in Central Baraba

The article discusses the results of2024 archaeological field season at the site of Tartas-1. The features illustrating various chronological periods and cultures, including the cult complex of Pakhomovo culture and a Neolithic settlement, were explored. Prior to excavations, a geomagnetic survey was conducted in order to reveal the potential archaeological objects at two locations in the northeastern part of the site - one of the areas was located on the terrace edge, approximately 200 meters to the north of the primary excavation area. The survey revealed eight features located in a row parallel to one another on the bedrock level. Traces of use of fire were noted in all these objects. It is possible that these objects contained structures with vertically-placed pillars. The filling of objects contained small ceramics fragments dated to the Early, Middle, and Late Bronze Age, as well as the initial Early Iron Age. Most of these fragments were likely introduced during the filling process. In three out of the eight objects, compact clusters of burnt bones were found in the filling material. It is likely that cremation took place at the side of the object; the remains were placed in a pit. The degree of burning does not make it possible to determine whether the bones belonged to humans or animals. The features containing small fragments of ceramics and animal bones with traces offi re have been reported from cult complexes of the Late Bronze Age. However, no complete parallels to the complex under study have been established. This leads us to the conclusion that we are dealing with a new, previously unknown ritual and ceremonial practices. The spatial distribution of the graves, along with similarity in their constructions, suggest that they all belong to the same chronological period. Based on the characteristics of the ceramic materials, we propose to date this group of objects to the transition period between the Bronze and Iron Ages.