Black Grave
Chernihivska oblast
The Black Grave, known locally as Chorna Mohyla, is a monumental burial mound located in Chernihiv, Ukraine. Standing over 10 meters tall with a circumference of 170 meters, it is the largest kurgan in the region and a significant archaeological monument. Excavations in 1872–73 revealed two cremated Norse warriors, likely father and son, buried with slaves, sacrificial animals, weapons, armor, and ornate decorations. These findings suggest the mound belonged to two princes of Chernihiv from the late 10th century during the reign of Vladimir I of Kievan Rus. The burial involved a funeral feast atop a 7-meter-high mound, where cremated bodies were placed alongside helmets, chain mail, a cauldron with ram bones, sacerdotal knives, golden Byzantine coins, an imported sabre, a bronze idol of Thor, and silver-bound aurochs horns adorned with intricate motifs. A stele was erected at the mound's summit. Today, the artifacts are housed at the State Historical Museum in Moscow. The Black Grave is part of the National Sanctuary of Ancient Chernihiv, a reserve that includes 34 historical buildings, mostly churches, making it a major tourist attraction in the Chernihiv Oblast.
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Consiglio: Visitors are advised to explore the site during daylight hours for the best experience. It is recommended to purchase tickets for the National Sanctuary of Ancient Chernihiv in advance to ensure entry. Guided tours provide valuable historical context. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Comfortable footwear is suggested due to outdoor walking paths.
Fatti interessanti
- •The Black Grave is the largest burial mound (kurgan) in Chernihiv and one of the largest in Ukraine.
- •Artifacts found include a miniature bronze idol of the Norse god Thor, illustrating Viking cultural influence.
- •Two silver-bound aurochs horns discovered are decorated with floral motifs and scenes of human figures shooting at a bird.
- •The burial mound is comparable to the barrows of Gnyozdovo near Smolensk, reflecting similar funerary traditions.
- •All significant artifacts from the mound are displayed at the State Historical Museum in Moscow.
Storia
The Black Grave was excavated in 1872–73 by archaeologist Dmitry Samokvasov, who dated the burial to the late 10th century.
The mound was constructed after cremation rituals for two high-ranking Norse warriors, possibly princes of Chernihiv.
Over centuries, the site became part of the National Sanctuary of Ancient Chernihiv, preserving its historical and cultural significance.
Its inclusion among 34 protected buildings emphasizes its importance in Ukrainian heritage.
Guida del luogo
The Burial MoundLate 10th century
The monumental kurgan stands over 10 meters tall and was constructed as the final resting place for two cremated warriors, featuring a 7-meter-high mound where funeral rites were performed.
Archaeological Finds Exhibit1872–73 excavation
Although the original artifacts are housed in Moscow, the site features displays and information about the helmets, chain mail, sacerdotal knives, Byzantine coins, and the Thor idol uncovered during excavations.
National Sanctuary of Ancient Chernihiv
The Black Grave is part of a larger reserve that includes 34 historical buildings, primarily churches, preserving the architectural and cultural heritage of Chernihiv.