Archaeological excavations near Nõo churchyard

Abstract

In 2024, an area of approximately 200 m2 was archaeologically surveyed in Nõo borough in connection with the construction of a bus parking lot. After removing a layer of topsoil approximately 20 cm thick, a cultural layer up to 40 cm thick was exposed, in which two deposits were distinguished. The upper part was 15–30 cm thick and contained a large amount of charcoal, while the lower part was only visible in places on the natural subsoil. This layer was characterised by a high content of peat and manure. As only three pottery sherds were found in the entire excavation area, this is not a settlement cultural layer. More than 50 coins from the 15th–16th centuries, other metal finds, and the location on the bank of a stream indicate that this was a watering place for animals, probably related to the church fairs.