Krasnodar In the Temryuk district, near the village of Starotitarovskaya, archaeologists are excavating an ancient settlement discovered back in 2001. Since 2014, systematic research of this site has been conducted as part of the construction of the Taman group water pipeline.

The region is rich in monuments from various historical eras, and archaeological research helps reconstruct the historical picture and understand the cultural traditions of peoples. The findings from the excavations create opportunities for implementing social projects in the studied areas.

During the current excavations, scientists have uncovered burials dating back to the 5th–1st centuries BCE, corresponding to the time of the Bosporan Kingdom—an ancient Hellenistic state that spanned the territories of modern-day Crimea and Kuban. A distinctive feature of some burials was the placement of large bowls on the chests of the deceased, as well as rare cremation burials.

Among the discovered artifacts are numerous black-glazed pottery items—bowls, kantharoi, and lekythoi—which were considered luxury goods. Ceramic items, metal objects, and furnaces were also found. After the research is completed, the findings will be transferred to state museum collections.

Each year, over 200 archaeological expeditions operate in the Krasnodar region, making it the leader in the country in terms of the number of such studies. The regional department for the protection of cultural heritage sites oversees the work.

Temryuk district

The Temryuk district is located in Krasnodar Krai, Russia, and is known for its rich history dating back to ancient Greek colonies, such as Phanagoria, founded in the 6th century BCE. Today, it is a key cultural and agricultural region, featuring the Taman Peninsula, historic Cossack settlements, and scenic landscapes along the Sea of Azov. The area also played a role in World War II, with the Temryuk port serving as a strategic military point.

Starotitarovskaya

Starotitarovskaya is a historic stanitsa (Cossack village) in Russia’s Krasnodar Krai, founded in 1794 by Black Sea Cossacks. Named after the Titarovka River, it played a key role in the region’s agricultural and cultural development. Today, it preserves traditional Kuban Cossack heritage, including architecture and local customs.

Bosporan Kingdom

The Bosporan Kingdom was an ancient Hellenistic state located on the eastern Crimean Peninsula and the Taman Peninsula, established around the 5th century BCE by Greek colonists. It thrived as a major trade hub between the Greek world and the Scythian steppes, later becoming a client kingdom of Rome. The kingdom endured for nearly a millennium before declining due to invasions by the Huns and Goths in the 4th century CE.

Crimea

Crimea is a peninsula on the northern coast of the Black Sea, known for its strategic importance and diverse cultural history. It has been ruled by various powers, including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Ottomans, and Russians, and was famously the site of the Crimean War (1853–1856). Today, it is a disputed region, annexed by Russia in 2014 but still internationally recognized as part of Ukraine. The area is also renowned for its scenic landscapes, historic sites like the ancient city of Chersonesus, and its role as a popular Soviet-era resort destination.

Kuban

Kuban is a historical and cultural region in southern Russia, centered around the Kuban River. It is known for its fertile lands, Cossack traditions, and diverse ethnic heritage, including Adyghe, Armenian, and Russian influences. The area played a significant role in Russian history, particularly during the Caucasus Wars and the settlement of the Kuban Cossacks in the 18th–19th centuries. Today, it is part of Krasnodar Krai and remains an important agricultural and cultural hub.

black-glazed pottery

Black-glazed pottery is a type of ancient Greek ceramic known for its glossy, black finish, achieved through a specialized firing process. It became prominent in the 6th to 4th centuries BCE, often used for tableware and decorative items, reflecting the refined craftsmanship of Athenian potters. While less ornate than painted red-figure pottery, its sleek appearance made it popular across the Mediterranean.

kantharoi

Kantharoi are ancient Greek ceramic drinking cups characterized by their high-swung handles and deep bowls, often used for wine. They date back to the Geometric and Archaic periods (8th–6th centuries BCE) and were later adopted by the Etruscans. These vessels were typically decorated with black-figure or red-figure designs, reflecting mythological or daily life scenes.

lekythoi

Lekythoi are ancient Greek ceramic vessels, primarily used for storing oil, especially in funerary rites. They became prominent in the 5th century BCE, often decorated with black-figure or red-figure techniques, depicting scenes of daily life or mythology. Many lekythoi were placed in tombs as offerings, with white-ground lekythoi being particularly associated with mourning and memorials.