Historical Encyclopedia
The history of Moldova begins in ancient times when the first people settled in its territory. According to archaeological data, the presence of humans here dates back to the early Paleolithic period. Remains of tools, stone artifacts, and the dwellings of primitive people indicate that the region has been inhabited for over 10,000 years. The conditions for living were quite favorable due to the mild climate, forests, rivers, and fertile soils that provided ample resources for ancient people.
During the late Paleolithic and Mesolithic periods, people in the territory of Moldova engaged in hunting, gathering, and fishing. These ancient communities left behind numerous archaeological finds, including stone tools, bones of animals consumed for food, and remains of dwellings. Archaeological findings from this period are found in the territory of modern Moldova, indicating the widespread distribution of ancient settlements throughout the country.
The Starčeva-Criș culture, which emerged during the early Neolithic period, is considered one of the first agricultural cultures in the region. Archaeologists date it to the 7th–6th centuries BC, covering territories of modern Moldova, Romania, and parts of Ukraine. The main activities of representatives of this culture were agriculture and cattle breeding, which marked an important step in the development of society. The people of this culture began to use more complex tools, engaged in baking bread, and mastered pottery. Found artifacts include ceramics, jewelry, and tools made of stone and bone.
In the settlements of Starčeva-Criș, structures were also discovered, representing simple one-story houses made of wood and coated with clay. The layout of the settlements was relatively simple, yet indicates the presence of an organized community with a certain social structure. The basis of their diet consisted of grains, meat from domesticated animals, as well as game and fish. The religious beliefs of ancient people were reflected in their burial rituals and ceremonies related to ancestor and nature worship.
One of the most prominent cultures of the Neolithic and Eneolithic periods that thrived in the territory of Moldova is the Cucuteni-Trypillia culture, which existed from 5200 to 2750 BC. This culture was unique for its brightly painted ceramic products, including vessels with geometric patterns and ornately decorated figurative items. The people of the Cucuteni-Trypillia culture created exquisite clay sculptures and dishes adorned with complex motifs.
The settlements of this culture reached considerable sizes and were organized in a circular scheme. Some of them had populations of up to 15,000 inhabitants, indicating high population density and a developed social structure. The people of the Cucuteni-Trypillia culture built large houses that were clay-coated and decorated with wall paintings. They engaged in agriculture, cattle breeding, and trade, as well as developing crafts and arts. The high level of craftsmanship in pottery and metalworking indicates a complex society with advanced production skills.
During the Eneolithic and Bronze Ages, new tribes began to penetrate the territory of Moldova, bringing with them metalworking technologies. Ancient cultures during this period began to use copper and later bronze, which stimulated the development of tools, weapons, and jewelry. The most notable cultures of this period in Moldova were the Yamnaya and Catacomb cultures, whose representatives began burial practices in barrows, indicating significant changes in religious and social beliefs.
The Yamnaya culture, existing in the 3rd millennium BC, was nomadic and likely engaged in cattle breeding. Their artifacts include bronze items, clay vessels, and jewelry. In the settlements of the Catacomb culture, archaeologists find traces of complex burial rituals that suggest early beliefs in the afterlife. These cultures contributed to the development of trade and exchange, fostering cultural contacts with other regions.
At the turn of the 2nd millennium BC, settlements can be seen on the territory of modern Moldova that can be referred to as proto-cities. Archaeological studies show that people began to create more complex structures for protection against attacks and built fortifications around settlements. These fortifications included earthworks and ditches, which protected the population and property. Among the most notable archaeological finds of this period are remnants of fortifications, settlements, and burials.
During the late Bronze Age, crafts such as metalworking, ceramics, and textile production developed in the territory of Moldova. People began to create bronze tools and jewelry, indicating technological progress. The development of agriculture and cattle breeding contributed to population growth and the consolidation of a settled lifestyle. Trade with neighboring regions also played an important role in the economy and culture of society at that time.
With the advent of the Iron Age around 1200 BC, iron tools and weapons began to be used in Moldova, significantly changing the economy and military affairs. Iron, being a more accessible and durable material, allowed for the production of higher quality tools and weapons, which contributed to increased productivity in agriculture and crafts. The tribes living in the territory of modern Moldova became more organized, reinforced their settlements, and began to wage more active wars with neighbors.
During this time, nomadic tribes of Scythians, Sarmatians, and other peoples began to penetrate the territory of Moldova, leading to cultural exchange and assimilation. These contacts stimulated the development of local culture and helped spread new technologies. In some settlements, artifacts indicating trade with Greek colonies on the Black Sea have been found. Thus, during the Iron Age, the territory of Moldova became part of a broader system of cultural and economic ties.
Ancient settlements in the territory of Moldova left behind a rich archaeological heritage that includes tools, household items, burials, and ceramics. Many of these finds can be seen in the museums of the country, and they represent important evidence of the past, illustrating the development of technology, culture, and social structures. Archaeological studies offer insights into how the lives and cultures of ancient peoples changed over the millennia.
Particular significance in the study of ancient history of Moldova is attributed to cultures such as the Starčeva-Criș and Cucuteni-Trypillia cultures. Their contributions to the development of agriculture, crafts, and arts significantly influenced subsequent eras. These cultures not only testify to the high level of craftsmanship and organization among ancient people but also showcase a complex picture of their worldview, religion, and relationships with the environment.
The history of ancient settlements in the territory of Moldova is an important part of the country's cultural heritage. It sheds light on the lives and customs of ancient peoples who made the first steps towards creating an organized society thousands of years ago. Their achievements and cultural traditions left an indelible mark, becoming the foundation for the formation of future civilizations in this region.