Badania archeologiczne grodziska w Zbuczu, gm. Czyże, pow. hajnowski

The article presents the results of geophysical research carried out in a hillfort in Zbucz from the late 9th and the early 10th centuries. This is the oldest fortified object in this part of Podlasie region which, on top of military functions, served also as a venue of culture and ceremonies. The area between the upper course of the Narew and the central Bug hosts only a few early medieval hillforts; the one located in the vicinity of Zbucz village seems to be the oldest. The hillfort which comes either from the late 9th century or the early 10th century, is a ring-type structure. During excavations, preserved remains of a burnt-down bank structure were discov¬ered together with the bank build-up. What differentiates this venue from similar ones is an internal ditch in which burnt human bones were excavated, accompanied by ornaments and daily use objects. This is reason to believe that on top of serving as a shelter, the stronghold was also a venue of ceremonies or cult activities. In 2015 the area was subjected to geophysi¬cal research which resulted in a better insight into the structures excluded from excavations.