Gruia Fazecaş | Muzeul Ţării Crişurilor (original) (raw)
Books by Gruia Fazecaş
Prehistory of Bihor county, Romania
Papers by Gruia Fazecaş
Crisia Vol. LIII, Supliment nr. 1, 2023
The site has been known since 1871 from an archaeological perspective, thanks to the information ... more The site has been known since 1871 from an archaeological perspective, thanks to the information provided by F. Rómer, the father of Hungarian archaeology. The first excavations, made by A.D. Alexandrescu and M. Rusu in 1954, established the significance of this settlement for reconstructing the realities of the Bronze Age in the Crișurilor Basin. The language used is clear, concise, and objective, with a formal register and precise word choice. The text adheres to conventional structure and formatting features, including consistent citation and footnote style. The grammar, spelling, and punctuation are correct, and the text is free from bias and subjective evaluations. No changes in content have been made. In a scientific research project conducted between 2014 and 2016, this multilayered dwelling was investigated using both classical and non-invasive methods. The aim of the research was to establish the chronological position of this site in relation to the nearest Bronze Age tell, located approximately 7 km away in a straight line, at Toboliu. Archaeological research resumed in 2022 as part of a systematic investigation into the dwelling from the middle period of the Bronze Age and the medieval monastery that overlaps it.
The site has been known since 1871 from an archaeological perspective, thanks to the information ... more The site has been known since 1871 from an archaeological perspective, thanks to the information provided by F. Rómer, the father of Hungarian archaeology. The first excavations, made by A.D. Alexandrescu and M. Rusu in 1954, established the significance of this settlement for reconstructing the realities of the Bronze Age in the Crișurilor Basin. In a scientific research project conducted between 2014-2017 and 2022-2023 this multi-layered site was investigated using both classical and non-invasive methods. The aim of the research was to establish the chronological position of this site in relation to the nearest Bronze Age tell, located approximately 7 km away in a straight line, at Toboliu. Archaeological research in the tell sites has demonstrated that they are contemporary, evolving during the Middle Bronze Age (ca. 1900-1600 BC).
Crisia LII, Supliment nr. 1, 2022
When we started the archaeological research in the Bronze Age tell settlement and Middle Ages Mon... more When we started the archaeological research in the Bronze Age tell settlement and Middle Ages Monastery at Sântion, back in 2015, we paid special attention to landscape research near the site. During the documentary stage we encountered some remarks that indicated that the landscape around the site had changed radically over a few decades, which would underline the idea that the archaeological landscape from the Bronze Age it was quite different from what we see today. Subsequently we searched for the maps that allow to determine the extent of the changes in the Crișul Repede river course and to analyze the relation between the tell-settlement and Crișul Repede river. In 2022, after a period marked by financial shortages and the break forced by the COVID-19 epidemic, we managed to resume work on this site.
![Research paper thumbnail of Locuirea eneolitică târzie de la Oradea - str. Cireşilor [Late Copper Age Settlement from Oradea - Cireşilor Street]](https://attachments.academia-assets.com/105802161/thumbnails/1.jpg)
](In this article we present an archaeological complex belonging to the end Copper Age found in Ora... more In this article we present an archaeological complex belonging to the end Copper Age found in Oradea – Cireşelor street. This complex was uncovered during of an preventive archaeological research caused by the construction of a residential district. In addition to this complex were discovered another two ovens, which also belong to the Baden culture, but those will be subject of another study. In addition to Baden culture specific pottery has been found an awl made of copper with both ends sharp and rectangular section. Baden culture settlement from Oradea – Cireşilor street presents a particular feature regarding the type of habitat. Is a settlement the heights different from what we know that this culture people prefer. However, the small area that has been researched and where have been discovered archaeological materials belonging to the Late Copper Age, does not allow us to establish with certainty whether it is a settlement belonging exclusively Baden culture or mixed settleme...
Apulum Series Archaeologica Et Anthropologica, 2013
Apulum, L, 2013: 47-85, Nov 1, 2013
"The Coţofeni culture settlement from Tăşad (Bihor county) remained unknown to t... more "The Coţofeni culture settlement from Tăşad (Bihor county) remained unknown to the specialists, although there are some information about the materials found here, known for more than four decades. The finds presented in this study resulted from the research made by N. Chidioşan, between 1971-1984 on Cetăţaua hill (363 m). They were found on the entire site, but rarely come from a distinct level, due to hill arrangements in Iron Age. Unfortunately, there were not notified Coţofeni contexts, although their existence should be considered. Findings consist solely of pottery. More ceramic forms can be reconstructed: mugs, cups, dish, bowls, jugs, amphorae, vases with flattened body, cookware, dishes, jars, cups and pots with foot. The decor was done by impression, incision, Furchenstich technique, by fake string, pseudo-excision, applications and slurry. A ceramic bobbin also was found (pl. 13/7). The existing analogies for Coţofeni settlement from Tăşad indicates a dating of materials in Coţofeni IIIc stage, with very good analogies in the discoveries from Câmpanii de Sus-Măgura, Prihodişte-Peştera Prihodişte, Româneşti-Peştera cu Apă, Băile Herculane-Peştera Hoţilor caves, or at Dubova-Cuina Turcului rock shelter and open settlement from Clit-Grueţul Negrilor, but also in cremation necropolis from Medieşu Aurit. In this horizon contact elements with Vučedol culture and Ostrikovac group are present. The presence of this Coţofeni late community in Crişana is due to a south impulse from the area of contact with cultural entities above mentioned."
Introducere În vara anului 2014, Muzeul Ţării Crişurilor din Oradea împreună cu Institutul de Arh... more Introducere În vara anului 2014, Muzeul Ţării Crişurilor din Oradea împreună cu Institutul de Arheologie şi Istoria Artei din Cluj-Napoca au reînceput cercetările arheologice de la Toboliu (jud. Bihor), în punctul numit Dâmbu Zănăcanului 1 (fig. 1c-d). Săpăturile arheologice precedente au avut ca obiectiv cercetarea tell-ului de Epoca Bronzului, amintind sumar sau deloc existenţa unui cimitir modern 2. Putem spune că ne-am confruntat şi noi cu problema acestei descoperiri, încă înainte de începerea propriu-zisă a săpăturilor, deoarece dispunerea mormintelor, precum şi a vechilor secţiuni constituia o necunoscută, acestea neputând fi identificate la suprafaţă 3. Am ales, aşadar, să deschidem prima casetă într-un punct de maximă importanţă pentru cercetarea stratigrafiei tell-ului, sperând să nu se contureze mormintele moderne, care ar fi deranjat nivelele superioare ale aşezării din epoca bronzului. Totuşi, mai multe astfel de morminte s-au conturat în unitatea de cercetare. În cele ...
Prehistory of Bihor county, Romania
Crisia Vol. LIII, Supliment nr. 1, 2023
The site has been known since 1871 from an archaeological perspective, thanks to the information ... more The site has been known since 1871 from an archaeological perspective, thanks to the information provided by F. Rómer, the father of Hungarian archaeology. The first excavations, made by A.D. Alexandrescu and M. Rusu in 1954, established the significance of this settlement for reconstructing the realities of the Bronze Age in the Crișurilor Basin. The language used is clear, concise, and objective, with a formal register and precise word choice. The text adheres to conventional structure and formatting features, including consistent citation and footnote style. The grammar, spelling, and punctuation are correct, and the text is free from bias and subjective evaluations. No changes in content have been made. In a scientific research project conducted between 2014 and 2016, this multilayered dwelling was investigated using both classical and non-invasive methods. The aim of the research was to establish the chronological position of this site in relation to the nearest Bronze Age tell, located approximately 7 km away in a straight line, at Toboliu. Archaeological research resumed in 2022 as part of a systematic investigation into the dwelling from the middle period of the Bronze Age and the medieval monastery that overlaps it.
The site has been known since 1871 from an archaeological perspective, thanks to the information ... more The site has been known since 1871 from an archaeological perspective, thanks to the information provided by F. Rómer, the father of Hungarian archaeology. The first excavations, made by A.D. Alexandrescu and M. Rusu in 1954, established the significance of this settlement for reconstructing the realities of the Bronze Age in the Crișurilor Basin. In a scientific research project conducted between 2014-2017 and 2022-2023 this multi-layered site was investigated using both classical and non-invasive methods. The aim of the research was to establish the chronological position of this site in relation to the nearest Bronze Age tell, located approximately 7 km away in a straight line, at Toboliu. Archaeological research in the tell sites has demonstrated that they are contemporary, evolving during the Middle Bronze Age (ca. 1900-1600 BC).
Crisia LII, Supliment nr. 1, 2022
When we started the archaeological research in the Bronze Age tell settlement and Middle Ages Mon... more When we started the archaeological research in the Bronze Age tell settlement and Middle Ages Monastery at Sântion, back in 2015, we paid special attention to landscape research near the site. During the documentary stage we encountered some remarks that indicated that the landscape around the site had changed radically over a few decades, which would underline the idea that the archaeological landscape from the Bronze Age it was quite different from what we see today. Subsequently we searched for the maps that allow to determine the extent of the changes in the Crișul Repede river course and to analyze the relation between the tell-settlement and Crișul Repede river. In 2022, after a period marked by financial shortages and the break forced by the COVID-19 epidemic, we managed to resume work on this site.
In this article we present an archaeological complex belonging to the end Copper Age found in Ora... more In this article we present an archaeological complex belonging to the end Copper Age found in Oradea – Cireşelor street. This complex was uncovered during of an preventive archaeological research caused by the construction of a residential district. In addition to this complex were discovered another two ovens, which also belong to the Baden culture, but those will be subject of another study. In addition to Baden culture specific pottery has been found an awl made of copper with both ends sharp and rectangular section. Baden culture settlement from Oradea – Cireşilor street presents a particular feature regarding the type of habitat. Is a settlement the heights different from what we know that this culture people prefer. However, the small area that has been researched and where have been discovered archaeological materials belonging to the Late Copper Age, does not allow us to establish with certainty whether it is a settlement belonging exclusively Baden culture or mixed settleme...
Apulum Series Archaeologica Et Anthropologica, 2013
Apulum, L, 2013: 47-85, Nov 1, 2013
"The Coţofeni culture settlement from Tăşad (Bihor county) remained unknown to t... more "The Coţofeni culture settlement from Tăşad (Bihor county) remained unknown to the specialists, although there are some information about the materials found here, known for more than four decades. The finds presented in this study resulted from the research made by N. Chidioşan, between 1971-1984 on Cetăţaua hill (363 m). They were found on the entire site, but rarely come from a distinct level, due to hill arrangements in Iron Age. Unfortunately, there were not notified Coţofeni contexts, although their existence should be considered. Findings consist solely of pottery. More ceramic forms can be reconstructed: mugs, cups, dish, bowls, jugs, amphorae, vases with flattened body, cookware, dishes, jars, cups and pots with foot. The decor was done by impression, incision, Furchenstich technique, by fake string, pseudo-excision, applications and slurry. A ceramic bobbin also was found (pl. 13/7). The existing analogies for Coţofeni settlement from Tăşad indicates a dating of materials in Coţofeni IIIc stage, with very good analogies in the discoveries from Câmpanii de Sus-Măgura, Prihodişte-Peştera Prihodişte, Româneşti-Peştera cu Apă, Băile Herculane-Peştera Hoţilor caves, or at Dubova-Cuina Turcului rock shelter and open settlement from Clit-Grueţul Negrilor, but also in cremation necropolis from Medieşu Aurit. In this horizon contact elements with Vučedol culture and Ostrikovac group are present. The presence of this Coţofeni late community in Crişana is due to a south impulse from the area of contact with cultural entities above mentioned."
Introducere În vara anului 2014, Muzeul Ţării Crişurilor din Oradea împreună cu Institutul de Arh... more Introducere În vara anului 2014, Muzeul Ţării Crişurilor din Oradea împreună cu Institutul de Arheologie şi Istoria Artei din Cluj-Napoca au reînceput cercetările arheologice de la Toboliu (jud. Bihor), în punctul numit Dâmbu Zănăcanului 1 (fig. 1c-d). Săpăturile arheologice precedente au avut ca obiectiv cercetarea tell-ului de Epoca Bronzului, amintind sumar sau deloc existenţa unui cimitir modern 2. Putem spune că ne-am confruntat şi noi cu problema acestei descoperiri, încă înainte de începerea propriu-zisă a săpăturilor, deoarece dispunerea mormintelor, precum şi a vechilor secţiuni constituia o necunoscută, acestea neputând fi identificate la suprafaţă 3. Am ales, aşadar, să deschidem prima casetă într-un punct de maximă importanţă pentru cercetarea stratigrafiei tell-ului, sperând să nu se contureze mormintele moderne, care ar fi deranjat nivelele superioare ale aşezării din epoca bronzului. Totuşi, mai multe astfel de morminte s-au conturat în unitatea de cercetare. În cele ...
In the autumn of 2008, at the symposium about archaeological small finds from Deva where I presen... more In the autumn of 2008, at the symposium about archaeological small finds from Deva where I presented one stone shaft-hole axe with cylindrical butt found in Călacea (Bihor county) 1 , it was brought to my attention that two other unpublished pieces of the same type can be found in the collection of the Ioan Raica Municipal Museum from Sebeş 2. The first axe (inventory number: 2158), which was discovered at Podul Cetăţelii, Căpâlna, is made of granite, an igneous rock, has 9,2 cm in length, 4,1 cm in width, the diameter of the shaft-hole is 2,2 cm, the butt diameter is 2,8 cm, and it weighs 250 gr. The butt is quite short, just 2 cm (pl. I/1). The second axe (inventory number: M 289/ist 120) comes from the collection of the Evangelical Gymnasium from Sebeş, but its place of discovery is unknown. It is also made of an igneous rock, namely, rhyolite. It has 12 cm in length, 4,7 cm in width, the shaft-hole diameter measures 2,5 cm, the butt diameter is 3,9 cm, it weighs 470 gr and it ha...
Crisia, 2021
In the spring of 2020, a local from Gălășeni (com. Măgești, Bihor county) discovered several copp... more In the spring of 2020, a local from Gălășeni (com. Măgești, Bihor county) discovered several copper and bronze artifacts with the help of the metal detector. It is about a flat copper axe belonging to the Early Bronze Age and several pieces that probably belonged to a Arpășel type bronze hoard belonging to Late Bronze Age.
Crisia, 2021
In this paper we present a new research project dedicated to the interdisciplinary investigation ... more In this paper we present a new research project dedicated to the interdisciplinary investigation of the complex Bronze Age site in Toboliu (Bihor County, Romania). Using a multidisciplinary approach, the project aims to reveal the interplay of factors that contributed to the development and subsequent decline of this site. To this end, the planned investigations feature both archaeological fieldwork and comprehensive scientific analyses; the main disciplines involved here are geoarchaeology, archaeozoology, arcaheobotany and molecular archaeology. Hence, this project contains two closely integrated parts (archaeology and natural sciences), which in cooperation will hopefully provide a broad spectrum of new information about a Bronze Age tell in terms of the chronological and spatial development of the entire site structure, as well as subsistence practices and social and economic developments.
Along the time, several archaeological discoveries were made in the area of Tarcea village (Bihor... more Along the time, several archaeological discoveries were made in the area of Tarcea village (Bihor county), assigned to the Bronze Age, but without them being presented, and most of the time in the absence of field surveys those informations were confuzing. On this occasion we would like to present the results of our research done on the field. Following some surveys made during 2019, the site from Tarcea “Dealul Mare” was identified, on which occasion archeological material specific to the Sanislău ceramic style from the end of the Early Bronze Age was also collected. the discoveries from Tarcea are figured in the context of the Sanislău type discoveries from the Middle Basins of Ier and Crasna rivers.
Universitätsforschungen zur prähistorischen Archäologie Band 364, 2021
In this paper we outlined the research history of multilayered settlements in Bihor County from t... more In this paper we outlined the research history of multilayered settlements in Bihor County from the first mention of them on the maps from the end of the 18th century to the present.
The main moments in the research of such settlements were pointed out, as well as the biographies of the main researchers who dedicated their lives to their research.
Crisia, 2020
In this outline concerning the archaeological researches carried out in the last five years in th... more In this outline concerning the archaeological researches carried out in the last five years in the multilayered settlements of the Bronze Age in “northwest Romania”, we preferred to use the phrase Crişuri River Basin Basin collocation (because the Criş River is formed in Hungary) instead of other geographic or historic terms.
A number 33 sites considered as multilayered settlements has been considered. Starting from the 2013 state of research, before the start of our project “Living in the Bronze Age Tell Settlements. A study of Settlement Archaeology at the Eastern Frontier of Carpathian Basin” we have tracked the information we acquired over the last five years about this type of habitation. Thus, land surveys conducted to identify all sites, whether are or not aerial photographs, digital terrain modeling, geomagnetic and soil resistance research, topographical surveys and 14C data samplings were mentioned.
The outcome of these researches is obvious: it is clear that over the past five years, important steps have been taken in multilayered settlements knowledge. But numerous aspects, such as absolute chronology, geomagnetic surveys, excavations are still at an unsatisfactory level, a lot of problems are still unresolved, in order to approach a coherent view over the Middle Bronze Age period (2000/1900 – 1600/1500 BC) in Crișuri Rivers Basin.
A. Blanco-González/T. L. Kienlin (eds.), Current Approaches to Tells in the Prehistoric Old World. Oxford: Oxbow 2020
ACTA MVSEI VARADIENSIS, 2019
During the autumn of 2019, based on some field surveys done for historical supporting studies in ... more During the autumn of 2019, based on some field surveys done for historical supporting studies in order to update the General Urbanism Plans, we started a perieghetic research in the border of the of Aștileu and Bratca communes, located in the northern area of the Pădurea Craiului Mountains.
On this occasion we tried to identify in the field, the archaeological sites already reported in the scientific literature, to identify new sites and to make topographic surveys (STEREO 70) in order to protect them. Thus, we were able to correlate the archaeological information with the speleological studies and the local oral history, managing to clarify some unclear or sometimes contradictory aspects of information.
Cronica Cercetarilor Arheologice din Romania. Campania 2023, 2024
The 2015-2016 and 2022-2023 archaeological excavations at Sântion-Movila Mănăstirii / Kolostordom... more The 2015-2016 and 2022-2023 archaeological excavations at Sântion-Movila Mănăstirii / Kolostordomb aimed to investigate the medieval monastery and the Bronze Age tell. In the 2023 campaign, after several archaeological campaigns, research unit S 2 was completed, identifying 45 archaeological contexts and a stratigraphy of 3.42 m from the current level of trampling, measured in the NE corner of the section. Contexts 1-4 can be attributed to the medieval period and the rest to the Bronze Age (Fig. 1-2). Bronze Age stratigraphic accumulations reach 2.62 m in this area. The absolute data that we have so far are placed between 1922-1616 2σ (95.4%), the archaeological material being characteristic of that 2nd stage of the Otomani ceramic style.
Also in the 2023 campaign, S 3 was opened, located approximately in the middle of the site (Fig. 3-5). It targeted the southern part of the Benedictine monastery first mentioned in 1215. Research has shown that it had at least two phases of construction and probably went through several reconstructions. On the basis of the archaeological material discovered, we can assume that the first phase of construction of this building dates back to the 14th - 15th centuries. The second phase of the monastery is represented by a brick floor. The orientation of the bricks and the hollow space, which marks the route of an outgoing wall, marked two rooms. The archaeological material collected from the floor and its surroundings places the functioning of the rooms in the mid.16th century, which corresponds to the written records that in 1547 Dominican nuns took refuge here from Buda.
The preventive archaeological excavations carried out on the future express road from the point S... more The preventive archaeological excavations carried out on the future express road from the point Sit II – Şanțul Inginerilor, km. 3+850 – 3+950, Sântandrei, Bihor county included an area of 5570.58 m2, located on the first terrace of Crișul Repede river. At the end of the researches 50 archaeological features were discovered, belonging to the 7th-9th and 11th-13th centuries. The archaeological material recovered as a result of the excavations consists of fire installations, household pits of various shapes were discovered.
The preventive archaeological excavations of the Oradea site “Site VI-Link Road Km. 12+850 - 12+9... more The preventive archaeological excavations of the Oradea site “Site VI-Link Road Km. 12+850 - 12+950” was carried out following the trial trenching for the construction project of the link road “Link Road between Girația Sântandrei - Biharea A3 motorway” which led to the
identification in 2021 of a Neolithic site in this perimeter.
The site is located about 10.5 km NNV from the Oradea downtown, in the contact area of the Crișurilor Plain with the Oradea Hills, a relief characterized by flood plains, and the high terrace of the Crișul Mic, today canalized. It could be observed that the Neolithic settlement stretches over a ridge, which rises slightly from the marshy meadow of the Crișul Mic.
Following the excavation, 48 complexes were outlined, representing 4 dwellings, 3 burial tombs, two wells, pits, and annexes. On the basis of the pottery found, the settlement can be dated to the Middle Neolithic period, the Pișcolt group, most probably from the late phase.
Following the archaeological research resumed in 2022, three layers were revealed, further noted ... more Following the archaeological research resumed in 2022, three layers were revealed, further noted after the previous archaeological research from 2015-2016. The first level (Cxt.39) consists of a brown soil mixed with small fragments of coal, over which wooden beams were placed. Below this level with wood impressions a more compact light yellowish leveling layer (Cxt.40) was discovered, after
which it was followed by a yellowish-brown floor (Cxt.41) with a large patch of white ash. The objective of the research in 2022 was to follow the possible changes of the ceramic material in the lower layers of the settlement. And secondly, to collect fragments of animal bones for radiocarbon analysis, to provide new chronological considerations related to the life of the Bronze Age communities in the Crișului Repede Valley.
Cronica Cercetărilor Arheologice din România. Campania 2021, 2022
Cronica Cercetărilor Arheologice din România. Campania 2021, 2022
Cronica Cercetarilor Arheologice, 2014
The new archaeological investigations from Toboliu-Dâmbu Zănăcanului, started in 2014, were resu... more The new archaeological investigations from Toboliu-Dâmbu Zănăcanului, started in 2014, were resumed in July 2015. The main objective set for 2015 was the exhaustive investigation of Trench 2. As a secondary objective, we tried to finish the excavation and documentation of all modern graves revealed in Trench 1. All our objectives were successfully completed. Thus, a complete stratigraphic sequence for the Bronze Age tell settlement was obtained. Five individual habitation levels were observed in Trench 2, each corresponding to a distinctive structure. However, considering that the uppermost phase in Trench 1 seems to be younger than the uppermost phase in Trench 2, we have to consider the possibility of 6 individual Bronze Age habitation levels for this site.
Among the archaeological discoveries, we mention structures (compacted clay dwelling platforms, fire hearths, pits, postholes), as well as a rich collection of artefacts, consisting of numerous ceramic fragments, animal bones, bone and antler tools, miniatare cart wheels, spindle whorls and clay weights.
Regarding the cultural and chronological assignment, the discoveries are specific to the 2nd and 3rd Otomani cultural phases, datable to the MBA II - MBA III/LBA I. The three AMS dates, processed the Debrecen laboratory, show that the chronological evolution of the site occurred between 1898-1695 BC and 1679-1528 (cal BC)
The archaeological evaluation in site at Sântion, com. Borș, Bihor County comprising a Bronze Age... more The archaeological evaluation in site at Sântion, com. Borș, Bihor County comprising a Bronze Age tell settlement and a medieval monastery, was conducted in August 2015. Two excavation units, located 24 m from each other, were opened on this occasion. The first unit, S I (placed for methodological considerations in the central area of the mound, on the edge of the road crossing the site) had initial dimensions of 3x4,5 m and was later extended with an additional 1,5 m.S II located south of S I, on the southern side of the tell, towards the Crișul Repede river) measure 3x4 m, but was also extended later with 2 m.
A brick cist containing two graves was discovered in S I. Without any grave goods or other associated artefacts, the dating of M3 was made solely based on analogies from Transylvania and Hungary, which placed this type of funerary structure between the 12th and the 15th century (Fig. 1). The excavations in S I were halted above the Bronze Age layer and will be resumed in further campaigns. A medieval feature (probably a ditch), which disturbed the Bronze Age layer (Cxt. 7) was identifed in S II. The first Bronze Age layer (Cxt. 7) was reached at a depth of 0,95 m. The layer was preserved only partially (3x1,30 m), consisting of a yellow, compacted soil, description specific to a dwelling floor. Right beneath this floor a layer of gray, ashy soil was revealed (Cxt. 9). A bone sample for AMS dating was recovered from under feature Cxt. 11 (located beneath Cxt. 9). The most interesting structure investigated during this campaign was Cxt. 12, consisting of a surface with imprints of wide wooden boards (Fig. 2), preserved on an area of 2,29x1,28 m. A similar discovery was recently made in the contemporaneos tell settlement in Vrable (Slovakia).
In the area of the medieval feature (ditch?) the excavations were continued up to 2,50 m in depth. However, the base of the feature was not reach. In the northern part of S II, undisturbed by medieval interventions, 3 individual Bronze Age habitation levels were documented (up to 1,6 m in depth). They are represented by clay floors, interleaved by thin gray layers of ashy soil, with high concentrations of charcoal. Investigations will also be resumed in this unit in 2016. T AMS sample yielded a result around 1889-1693 (cal BC) and was associated with ceramic material specific to the Otomani II style.
Archaeological investigations in the Bronze Age tell settlement from Toboliu Dâmbul Zănăcanului w... more Archaeological investigations in the Bronze Age tell settlement from Toboliu Dâmbul Zănăcanului were started in 1960 and were led by N. Chidioşan, continuing with a series of other campaigns, last conducted in 1972. With the exception of a stratigrafic profile and a few archaeological materials, the results of these campaigns have not been published. The former name of this objective was Girişu de Criş „Alceu”, but presently it belongs to the village Toboliu with the toponym „Dâmbu Zănăcanului”. Investigations here were resumed in 2014, consisting of excavations and non-intrusive methods (topographic survey, aerial photography, systematic survey and resistivity profiling). Regarding the actual excavations, three trenches were dug, named „Caseta” I, II and III respectively. The first trench (7x5 m.) was located on the highest point of the tell settlement. In this part, a modern cemetery disturbed the upper layers of the prehistoric site, a total number of 13 graves being exposed, arranged on three parallel rows. Seven of these graves were fully investigated, revealing remains from one adult and six infants. Copper and bronze coins (the earliest was issued in 1812 (Francisc II (I)) and the latest in 1879 (Franz Joseph), as well as metal and porcelain buttons were identified. It was also observed here that the burial pits cut through a Bronze Age structure, from which a large number of pottery fragments (still in situ) were recovered. The second trench (4x2 m) overlapped an old archaeological trench and was intended as means of verifying and comparing old and new results. The third trench (7x5 m) was excavated in the eastern part of the mound. After removing the top soil and a disturbed layer, patches of compact adobe were observed, belonging to a surface dwelling. Unfortunately, here too we encountered an old archaeological trench (1,5 m wide), crossing our section on a NNE-SSV axis and cutting trough the prehistoric structure.
Archaeological finds consisted of pottery, bone and adobe fragments, as well as other special finds, from which we mention a few whole or well preserved vessels, miniature cart wheels, a bone pendant and a bivalve casting mould for obtaining a socketed chisel. Based on ceramic style, the upper layer investigated was dated in Middle Bronze Age III (Bz B1), assigned to the Otomani III Cultural phase. From the surface of the house in Caseta I (features 10,12) a bone was sampled for Radiocarbon analisys. The result places the house between 1600-1500 B.C..
Cronica Cercetărilor Arheologice din România, May 2015
A series of 158 archaeological test trenches were conducted along DN76, due to new scheduled road... more A series of 158 archaeological test trenches were conducted along DN76, due to new scheduled road projects in the area from Ştei to Pocola. In the initial phase between km 126+500+750 (near Sânmartin de Beiuş) a few archaeological features were identified, consisting of four pits containing Medieval pottery. The site was already known in the archaeological literature. Consequently we decided to extend the archaeological excavation in that area in order to obtain accurate scientific information, by drawing three more sections: SI, SII and SIII/2014. All in all, besides the four pits identified in the test trenches, during the archaeological researches carried out we identified 27 features in the first section and 6 other in the second one. The ceramic and slug fragments recovered could be dated to the XIV-XVI centuries.
Cronica Cercetărilor Arheologice din România, May 2015
The archaeological site from Salca terrace in Oradea is already well known from previous accident... more The archaeological site from Salca terrace in Oradea is already well known from previous accidental discoveries and archaeological investigations. The areas investigated in May-June 2014 (uneven in size and adding to about 1 ha), are situated between Ceyrat Street and Rulikowski Cemetery and were overlapped by the municipal plan nursery. Visible excavations and other modern interventions made it clear from the beginning that the archaeological layers were altered almost entirely. After removing the top disturbed soil, a number of 116 features were identified, among them a few natural root holes and modern garbage pits.
Judging from the size, shape and content, most of the
features probably functioned either as storage pits or garbage pits. As well, a few clay extracting holes were also identified. Of a greater interest are two earth ovens (dated to the 14th century A.D.) both build in a similar manner, with a service pit and a clay hob. Three ditches crossing the second investigated surface were also observed, two of them relatively narrow and parallel to each other and a considerably wider one, overlapping the smaller ones. Another type of feature found here is represented by dwellings, four such structures being identified for certain. Even thou these are dated to entirely different periods (Bronze Age, La Tène and Medieval period), the building techniques and dimensions are rather similar, with roughly rectangular shape and traces of post holes. Four other features could function as dwellings of huts. In the southern area of the second surface, close to the edge of the terrace, an inhumation grave was discovered oriented on a SV-NE axis. The deceased was laid on its back, with upper limbs along the torso and lower limbs fully extended. An iron spear head, an iron blade and a bronze coin were discovered near or on the body. The coin was dated to the 347-348 A.D.
From a chronological point of view the site is heterogeneous, comprising finds from different periods: Late Neolithic, Early Copper Age, Bronze Age, Iron Age and Middle Age, various cultural manifestations within this periods being represented. The material finds are also diverse. Pottery from all above mentioned stages is well represented (with many fragments nicely decorated), but other artefacts, such as spindle whorls, loom weights, adobe, bone and antler fragments were found. Apart from the already mentioned grave goods, among special finds we mention a few Neolithic stone blades, two bronze pendants and an iron fibula (brooch).
Cronica Cercetărilor Arheologice, 2013
The Neolithic site from “Corău”, Suplacu de Bracău is located in an overflowing area on the right... more The Neolithic site from “Corău”, Suplacu de Bracău is located in an overflowing area on the right side of the Barcău river. The preventive archaeological research took place in the framework of a dam construction on the Barcău river.
During the 2012 campaign, archaeological research took place from the 22.08.2012-to the 22. 10. 2012 and we have partially modified the research strategy. Both non-intrusive methods (surface research, surveying and geomagnetic scanning) and archaeological excavation (sections, surfaces) have been employed.
The first grid of 40 m x 40 m for which magneto-metric scans were provided, is situated in the east-south-eastern side of the area which is assumed to be investigated. In this area we investigated seven archaeological features, most of them represented by small pits. Magneto-metry provided us in a short time with amazing results. The magneto-metric maps revealed the spatial distribution of the archaeological features and materials. Moreover, geomagnetic prospects seized the site limits and one of the ancient Barcău flows. Evidence pointed out that the rectangular structures of the inside settlement could be dwellings clearly discernible as they have a fired inventory.
In the same time, we extended one of Doina’s Ignat sections (SVII) to the north-west in order to obtain a clear view on the site stratigraphy, cultural and chronological framing and eventual successive deposition layers.
Therefore, in the next couple of weeks the archaeological researches were carried out on the right side of the ancient flow of the Barcău river (grids I 08, I 09, J 08, J 09, K 08, K 09) and we focused on excavating as much as we can in order to obtain certain scientific results. In the first surface SI/2012 (13 m x 50 m) there have been identified 60 archaeological features (most of them small pits and deepened dwellings), but only 53 have been investigated (one of these features is represented by an inhumation grave-M1). All in all, four surfaces were excavated, roughly 3000 m2, and we indentified almost 160 archaeological different features.
The main purpose of the next archaeological campaign will be to assign all the archaeological features which are to be investigated to a certain cultural and chronological frame as well as a general view on the evolution of this site in the first half of the fifth millennium B.C. is to be obtained.
Cronica Cercetărilor Arheologice, 2013
The archaeological site from „Dealul Roşu”, Suplacu de Barcău, is situated on a high terrace on t... more The archaeological site from „Dealul Roşu”, Suplacu de Barcău, is situated on a high terrace on the right side of the Borumblaca river. In the past couple of months, Petrom Company has placed in this area nine gas wells.
Consequently, in the spring of 2012, the Petrom Company asked us to evaluate the damages which have been produced during these constructions. Due to some field walks we observed that only two of this wells affected the archaeological site.
Therefore, in the following two weeks, the main purpose of our research campaign was to identify all the damages produced during the placement of this platfoms. Scientifically speaking, the evaluation reasearch was aimed to obtain information on the site stratigraphy, cultural and chronological framing and, most of all, spatial distribution of archaeological features and materials. In order to obtain accurate archaeological results, we opened two sections (SI/2012 and SII/2012) between two of this gas wells (2254 and 2255). In these two sections there have been identified several archaeological features. There have been partially or totally investigated seven archaeological complexes. Two of them (Cx. 02/SI, and Cx. 05/SI), represent two pits and could be assigned to Tiszapolgár culture. We also identified another pit, containing rich inventory (Cx. 04/SI) and a large dwelling (Cx. 01/SI) which could be assigned to the first stage of the Coţofeni culture. Cx. 03/SI, represented by six loom weights, might be a late bronze age complex. For a number of two investigated features a chronological framing was not possible to be obtained because of the lack of relevant inventory artifacts.
Moreover, in north-eastern side of the SI/2012, we identified a deposition layer, which has also been identifi ed in the western profile of the SI/2012. The potsherds discovered in this deposition layer could be linked with the late bronze age features from this area.""
Cronica Cercetărilor Arheologice din România
The preventive investigation of the site that is situated along the Transylvania Highway, between... more The preventive investigation of the site that is situated along the Transylvania Highway, between km 54+150 - 54+350 started in the spring of 2009 and was finalized in the summer of 2010. During this time, 17 sections and digging sites have been unearthed.
In ten of these sections, no object of archaeological interest was found. In the section S 10, drawn along km 54+150 - 54+200, a pit was discovered (C3) which contained pottery fragments, adobe pieces, coal, remains from a fire hearth, obsidian, bone fragments and stone.
The sections S2, S11-15, opened along km 54+300 - 54+400, revealed two contemporary parallel ditches that obliquely cross the width of the highway, following a NE-SW direction.
These ditches were observed at a depth of approx. -0.65/0.80m, where C1 had a span of 2.20 – 4.10m while C2 had a span of 1 - 1.70m. The distance between the two ditches is 0.40/0.45m. In the filling of the ditches that go as deep as -2.10m for C1 and -1.45m for C2, we found few pottery fragments belonging to the Neolithic period.
Cronica Cercetărilor Arheologice din România - campania 2006, May 2007
Cronica Cercetărilor Arheologice din România, 2003
The piece which is the object of this paper was unearthed in the 2002 / 2003 winter, during on a ... more The piece which is the object of this paper was unearthed in the 2002 / 2003 winter, during on a rescue excavation at the site Oradea – Salca “Fabrica de bere” (=”Ale factory”). This site is the largest, well know and most interesting archaeological site in the Oradea city area. First result of the excavation done here was published in 1904. The discoveries till present cover a period of time from Early Neolithic to XVth century. In fact this site “Ale factory” is a part of all ready well know site Salca II or Salca “Gheţărie” (note 1).
We can’t determine the original size of the piece (even we presume a length of ca. 17 cm.) but in the present those are: 9,3 cm. length and 3,7 cm diameter. The rectangular handle holes have 1,4 and 1,8 cm width. Also we can not determine from which animal species the piece was made, it might be from a bovine. The incised ornament display in two registers shaded triangles. In first row are six and in the second row are seven triangles.
The artefact was not found in complex or in clear stratigraphic context. In this way, I try to connect this discovery with something similar.
The ornament is not useful to determine neither the cultural affiliation nor even the Age when this piece was in use. This kind of ornament is largely used on Bronze Age Otomani, Wietemberg, Monteoru, Costişa, Gârla Mare, Hatvan, Madarovce, even Lausitz or Knovízer culture pottery (notes 9 – 13, 18 - 19). In Wietemberg area this ornament is specific for Wietemberg II phase (Bz. B), the same in Otomani area and Apa – Hajdúsámson horizont (notes 14 - 17). Also we meet this ornament on clay statuette from Dupljaja or on wagon clay models or miniatures altars (note 20).
On metal pieces from Bronze Age and Early Iron Age (Ha A2 – B1) we find this ornament on swords - Apa, Livada, Zsújtai, Komiatna, Egereske, Liptó - Szent - Márton, Nagydém, Vaja, Zajta, "Hungary", “Transylvania”, Odorheiu Secuiesc, Bistriţa, Hida, Vadu Crişului, Spišská Belá, Rørby - (notes 24 - 40), on daggers - Barca, Bracovce, Garica, Kvitovice, Hernádkak (note 41), on axes - "Hungary", Hostice, Mezőberény, Zajta, Pusztaszentkirály, Gepiu, Păuliş, Someşeni, Apa, Gaura, Săpânţa, “Turda county”, Tărian, “Turda”, Ighiel, Roşiori (note 42 - 58), on bracelets - Bogata, Csabrendeki, Şpălnaca, Nyírbéltek, Felsődobsza, Valea lui Mihai, Tiszabecs, Áporka, Derecske (notes 59 - 67). Another metal pieces with this ornament are the pin from female grave 270 from Výčapy – Opatovce of Nitra culture (note 68) and phalerae from Lichternrade belonging to Unitece culture (note 71) or that from Heegermühle (Ha A2 – beginning Ha B1) (note 72), the muff from “Hungary” (note 73) or gold pendants from Bodrogkeresztúr (note 74). As well this ornament is present in Ha C phase - the armours from Pommerkogel and Kröll – Schmiedkogel (note 75). I emphasised on metal artefacts because, like in case of the bone sceptre, those are in a way the reflection of the owner and his status in society – a higher one.
On bones artefacts this ornament is found on horse bit dowells of Otomani, Wietemberg and Noua cultures, but the size of the piece from Oradea don’t allow us to consider a similar utility (notes 76 - 77).
As in the case of the ornament, because in present the piece is fragmented we can have wrong conclusions. The closest analogy is the sceptre found at Lancrăm (Pl. II/7, note 78). Is not exactly clear the functionality of this piece but we presume that it was a sign of prestige. The piece was a product of Wietemberg or Otomani Middle Bronze Age.
In 1958, N. Chidiosan did an test excavation in tell type settlement at Salonta „Testhalom” - 2 k... more In 1958, N. Chidiosan did an test excavation in tell type settlement at Salonta „Testhalom” - 2 km NNV from Salonta rail station (See Pl. I). He did two trenches (SI - 15 x 1, 5 m later extended with 10 meters named S IA and S II – 5 x 1, 5 m) (see Pl. II). Under approximately 30 cm of vegetal soil with rich ceramic fragments are 25 cm of a brown soil (in fact the first level undamaged by agricultural works). At the depth of -0,55 m start to appear the yellow clay. Also seems to be founded four archaeological complexes.
The archaeological remains seems to be strongly selected (just 56 ceramic fragments are in the deposits of Criş County Museum). In the lack of a detailed report we present the material as follow: in the Pl III is presented the material found in C1 complex (between meters 18,5 – 20,5), in the Pl. IV/1 - 4 are remains from C 3 complex (between meters 21,5 – 23). The remains from first level are in the plates VI and VII, from the second level are in the plates VIII and IX. Also is material which was impossible to determine to which complex or level belongs (Pl. X).
Pottery forms are: bowls: (Pl. III/3, 5; VII/6; VIII/3, 6), dishes: (Pl. III/4, 6; IX/11), pots (Pl. IV/1, 3; VII/3, 5; VIII/4, 8, 9; IX/5; X/1), plates (Pl. III/1; VI/7), cups with handle (Pl. V/3, 4; VI/6; VII/2; VIII/5) or without (Pl. V/6; VI/5), portative hearths (Pl. V/5, 7). Ansa lunata type handle (Pl. VIII/8) belongs to an amphorette. Other types are: small pots (Pl. VI/2), carinated vessel (Pl. IV/5), vessel with “hedgehog” pattern on inside (Pl. VIII/7), the fragment from Pl. VIII/2 seems to belong to a vessel with protoma. Also was founded a clay chariot wheel (Pl. X/4).
Are presented incised ornaments displayed in different way: continuous V shape (Pl. VIII/3), lines in arch or garland form (Pl. V/2; VI/3, 7; VIII/4, 5; IX/9), sometimes the spaces between two incised lines is filled with small incised lines or stitches (Pl. IV/1, 5; V/2; VI/4, 6; VIII/5), shaded triangles (Pl. VII/6) ; flutted channel (Pl. Pl. V/3; X/1, 3), attached ornaments: girdle with sockets or notches (Pl. III/3, 6; IV/4; V/5, 7; VII/3), simple knobs (Pl. IV/4; VII/4VIII/7; IX/5) or flat knobs and decorated with incisions (Pl. VI/1) and scratched motifs (Pl. III/2; IX/1, 2, 3, 8, 10; X/2).
Also was found bone remains: 4 fragments of Unio crassus cythereus (in Chidioşan’s notes are mentioned almost 100), 1 fragment of Canis lupus minor MOJS., 4 fragments of Sus scrofa L. (aff. Palustris), 32 fragments of Cervus elaphus L., 5 fragments of Capreolus capreolus L, 1 fragment of Capra hircus L, 16 fragments of Bos primigenius and 1 fragment of Equus caballus.
The small amount of bone fragments analized not allows us to draw more complex conclusions. Because just 2% from bone remains are belonging to domestic animals, the rest species percentage is unreasonably high alongside of other Otomani culture settlements (Sălacea „Dealul Vida”, Săcuieni „Cetatea Boului”, Medieşul Aurit „Ciuncaş”, Otomani „Cetatea de pământ”, Békés „Várdomb”, Bakonszeg „Kádárdomb”, Gáborján „Csapszékpart”, Berettyóújfalu „Szilhalom”)
In the Salonta “Testhalom” settlement we find a strong influence from the south of Crişul Alb river, from Cornesti – Crvenka group (Pl. IV/1, 5; VIII/1, 8), but most part of the pottery has similarities in Andrid phase content (Otomani I). Both of the two levels of Salonta „Testhalom”, belong to the BM I.
The settlement from Salonta „Testhalom” is contemporary to the inferior levels from Békés „Várdomb”, Rétközberencs „Paradombon”, Turkeve „Terehalom”, Sălacea „Dealul Vida”, Girişul de Criş level IV.
![Research paper thumbnail of Ioan Bejinariu, Contribuții arheologice la cunoașterea epocii bronzului în depresiunea Șimleului [II.] Descoperirile de tip Cehăluț – Hajdúbagos din Bronzul târziu, Ed. Mega / Porolissum, Cluj-Napoca / Zalău, 2022, 154 p. + LXXXIX pl.](https://attachments.academia-assets.com/109689977/thumbnails/1.jpg)
](Crisia LIII, 2023
This is the review of Ioan Bejinariu's book on Archaeological contributions to the knowledge of t... more This is the review of Ioan Bejinariu's book on Archaeological contributions to the knowledge of the Bronze Age in the western half of Sălaj County, Romania [II.] The Cehăluț – Hajdúbagos type finds.
Crisia LIII, 2023
This is a review of a monographic volume dedicated to the city of Pecica. The book primarily focu... more This is a review of a monographic volume dedicated to the city of Pecica. The book primarily focuses on the research and archaeological discoveries of the sites surrounding the city, as well as the historical evolution of the area from the Neolithic period to the Middle Ages.
A presentation summarizing the results of non-invasive investigations and excavations undertaken ... more A presentation summarizing the results of non-invasive investigations and excavations undertaken on two tell-settlements in the Eastern Carpathian Basin.
Within the project Living in the Bronze Age tell settlements. A study of settlement archaeology at the Eastern frontier of the Carpathian Basin, numerous sites located in Western Romania were investigated through various non-invasive methods. The neighboring sites from Toboliu and Sântion (located only 7 km away from each other) were also chosen to undergo excavations.
After the end of the aforementioned project in late 2016, investigations at Toboliu continued with the financial support of the Chair for the Archaeology of the Metal Ages, Department of Prehistoric Archaeology at the University of Cologne.