Makaryevskoye Hillfort. Chronology and Material Culture

The article presents the results of the 2018 archaeological research at the Makaryevskoye hillfort (III–II millennium BC, I millennium BC – I millennium AD). Two excavation area, totaling 148 m², were laid on the site. The research uncovered a rectangular above-ground residential structure. Stratigraphic analysis of the mound established the cultural-chronological sequence of the settlement's defensive system construction. Four distinct phases of defensive rampart construction were identified. The first three phases were attributed to the Ananyino cultural and historical area (ACHA) period (IX–IV centuries BC), while the final phase is tentatively dated to the I millennium AD. A total of seven objects were recorded within the defensive complex: rampart I–IV, moat I–II, and a wattle and daub wooden wall. A detailed analysis was conducted of the finds recovered during excavation. Consequently, six ceramic groups were distinguished: 1) Chirki (turn of the III–II millennium BC), 2) post-Maklashevka (IX–IV centuries BC), 3) Akozino-Akhmylovo (IX–VI centuries BC), 4) Osh Pando (turn of the eras), 5) Azelino (II–V centuries AD), and 6) Imenkovo (IV–VII centuries AD). Based on the study of the material culture from the hillfort, the chronological limits for the site's occupation outlined above was established. A brief characterization of the hillfort inhabitants' economic activities from the I millennium BC through the Medieval period is also provided.