Ritual model of «living space for the dead» from the Eneolithic to the Middle Ages (based on materials from settlements in Upper Tobol, Saryarka and Priirtysh)

A ritual model of 'living space for the dead' has been identified as a persistent cultural practice from the Eneolithic to the Middle Ages, based on materials from settlements in Upper Tobol, Saryarka, and Priirtysh. This model, rooted in both mundane and sacred societal conditions, demonstrates a strong topographical dependence and cult character that endured through early and late nomadic traditions across the Eurasian Steppe. The study analyzed ten settlements spanning different time periods to identify burial groups by status, revealing that this ancient ritual persisted even into modern tribal burial complexes within seasonal winter settlements.

Usmanova, E. R., & Merts, V. K. (2021). Ritual model of «living space for the dead» from the Eneolithic to the Middle Ages (based on materials from settlements in Upper Tobol, Saryarka and Priirtysh). Samara Journal of Science, 10(4), 138–142. https://doi.org/10.17816/snv2021104201