Zhalniki

Zhal’niki

 

ancient graves dating from the 12th century to the 15th century. They are small, low, round mounds (rectangular ones appeared later) surrounded by boulders. Zhal’niki are widespread mainly in Novgorod and Pskov oblasts. Most of them belonged to the Slavs but some to the Vod’. They usually contain one skeleton, although several skeletons are also encountered. Ornaments and clay pots have been found near the skeletons. Stone four-limbed crosses stand on some of the zhalniki.