In the Krasnodar region, archaeologists have discovered a Meotian burial site containing ancient clay balsamaria.

The finds were discovered in Anapa district, in the village of Zarya.

"Chronologically, the settlement and burial ground are tentatively dated to the 2nd century BC – 2nd century AD and belong to the Meotian culture."- clarified in the press service of the Department of State Protection of Cultural Heritage Sites of the Krasnodar Territory.

Balsamaria are called Vessels used to store perfume oils. Initially, they were made of clay, but by the turn of the 1st century BC and 1st century AD, glass balsamaria had replaced clay vessels: their advantage over clay vessels was that they better preserved expensive essential oils.

In Roman burials, a balsamarium filled with aromatic substances was placed next to the body. It not only symbolized ritual purification but also served as a unique offering to the deceased.

Photo: Anapa Notebook