Sarkel

Sarkel was a major Khazar fortress constructed on the Don River in the 9th century to control river traffic and regional trade routes. It was a fortified stronghold of strategic importance in the lower Don basin.

Archaeological investigations documented the fortress architecture and material culture; the site later came under Kievan Rus control in the 10th century during regional conflicts. Over subsequent centuries the strategic significance of the location changed with shifting political boundaries.

In the 20th century river engineering and reservoir construction altered local river levels and flooded parts of the original site, so the remains that were excavated have a changed landscape today. The location lies within present-day Rostov Oblast on the Don River.

• Excavation and flooding: The site was excavated in the early 20th century but much of the original area is now affected by the Tsimlyansk Reservoir and altered river conditions.

What to See #

• Fortress remains: An archaeological site where foundations and artefacts of a 9th-century Khazar fortress were investigated before mid-20th century flooding.