A group of Russian scientists has presented a new study on a large burial mound previously discovered in southern Siberia.

The monument, which dates to the transitional period between the Bronze and Iron Ages, has become one of the earliest known evidence of Scythian funerary practices, TV BRICS reported.

The study focuses on excavations in a tomb dating back to the 9th century BC.

Inside the mound, the remains of at least 18 horses and one human were found. The discovered harness items also indicate links to the ancient equestrian cultures of Mongolia.

Horses began to occupy a significant place in funerary ceremonies in southern Siberia from the mid-second millennium BC, but the details of their use remain poorly researched until the emergence of clear equestrian cultures in the first millennium BC.

A number of horse bones and elements of harness were discovered during the excavations, which help to present funerary practices characteristic of Scythian traditions.

The work on the mound is completed by another find – a bronze artifact with seven spikes and three loops, probably intended for fastening.

AM