Stone-worship on the frontier of the south defense (zasechnyi) lines of Muscovy in the first half of the 16th century

The author specifies the location of the ancient “Sacred stones” of the south defense line of Muscovy in the first half of the 16th century, registered and literally adapted their legend, ascertained the Vyatichi origin of the legend and the stones and its affinity with the legend of Antes chieftain Boz. The article substantiates the extrapolation of their beliefs to the spiritual views, inner life and fighting qualities of their ancestors of the forenamed period with due regard for relics’ impact on the spirit world and mentality of the modern descendants of the lines’ defenders. Also the stones of the “Holy well” are presented as well as the ancient stones with strong energy and the image of Vedic cross to light the “live” fire.