Odino culture settlements in Baraba forest steppe

Purpose: The article analyzes the settlement complexes of Odino Bronze Age culture in Baraba forest-steppe. The reference object for the analysis is Staryi Tartas-5, a settlement where four ditches and the in-between housing space have been studied. Particular attention is paid to the analysis of the topographic location of the objects, and the traits of the settlements planigraphy. Results: It is concluded that the nature of the settlements is lakesidelike. The assumption about more humid climate in the Bronze Age in the area explored is confirmed by the nature of the modern location of hydrological objects with respect to the settlements, as well as by the specifics of geomorphologic processes of soil formation at the Staryi Tartas-5 site. Rich cultural artifacts layer, traces of restructured ditches along with substantial power of the calcined layer in the hearths speaks of the sustained existence of Odino culture settlements, whereas the complex system of the in-between housing space speaks of their functioning in the warmer months. The analysis of the ditches and the pits' pillar allowed to distinguish two main types of construction: frame and post type building with a truncated pyramidal roof and some lighter structures such as chums. The main types of hearths are identified both inside and outside the structures. The use of clay and ceramics in the construction of hearths are first observed. The diversity of the designs of the above-hearths constructions is also noted and their principal functions are identified. In some cases the specific nature of the findings at the hearths and near-hearths areas allowed to assume the existence of specialized working platforms for metal and stone processing. Production areas inside the buildings are characterized. Analysis of ceramic complexes led to the conclusion about the identity of the morphology, ornamentation and manufacturing technology of vessels throughout the culture on both settlement and funerary monuments. The presence of bronze production developed in the settlements while maintaining the traditions of the Neolithic stone tools treatment is identified. Diverse set of stones for tools manufacturing, the quality of their secondary treatment show the crucial role of tools made of stone in the economic activity of the population. The composition of animals skeletal collections suggests the existence of developed hunting activities, as well as the development of stock raising. Conclusion: Primary comparison of the initial results with the collections from the Ishim Basin and Irtysh Basin settlement complexes as well as simile with findings from burial sites suggests homogeneity of Odino culture within the limits of the studied area. This is witnessed by the results of paleo genetical studies of anthropological materials from Odinovskaya necropolis.