DOI: 10.33547/terra.fertilis17
The horizon of Barbarian elites of Eastern Barbaricum in phases C1–C2: an attempt at definition
by Kyrylo Myzgin 
in Terra fertilis, terra deserta. Exploitation of marginal zones, edited by M. J. Przybyła, J. Rodzińska-Nowak and M. Wojenka, Neue Studien zur Sachsenforschung 15, Braunschweig – Kraków: Braunschweigische Landesmuseum, Uniwersytet Jagielloński, Profil-Archeo, pp. 281-307.
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Abstract: This article examines the emergence and characteristics of Barbarian elite burials in the eastern part of Barbaricum during phases C1–C2 (3rd century AD), with particular reference to the forest-steppe regions of present-day Ukraine, Moldova, and Belarus. It addresses the longstanding marginalization of this area in research on the Leuna–Hassleben–Zakrzów horizon and seeks to define a comparable elite horizon based on newly available archaeological evidence.
The study critically evaluates the available source base, emphasizing both its limitations and recent expansion, including the growing number of finds—often resulting from uncontrolled metal detecting. A methodological framework is proposed to assess the reliability of such materials, allowing their cautious integration into scholarly analysis.
A key focus is placed on burial assemblages containing Roman metal vessels and other high-status goods. These assemblages reveal patterns similar to elite graves in central Europe, including standardized sets of Roman imports, weapons, glassware, and precious metals. However, regional differences—such as the predominance of cremation rites and the intentional destruction of grave goods—highlight distinct local traditions.
The article proposes criteria for identifying elite burials in eastern Barbaricum, emphasizing combinations of Roman imports (especially metal vessels), gold and silver objects, glassware, and weaponry. These burials are interpreted as belonging to a warrior elite whose status was closely tied to military activity and interaction with the Roman world.
Finally, the study explores the historical background of these elites, linking their formation to intensified Roman–Barbarian contacts in the mid-3rd century, including warfare, plundering, and mercenary service. While similarities with the Leuna–Hassleben–Zakrzów horizon are evident, the author concludes that the eastern material represents a related but distinct phenomenon. Overall, the paper contributes to a broader understanding of elite formation processes and cultural interactions across Barbaricum during the Roman Period.