Turkic Inscriptions in Cyrillic on 14th-15th Century Eastern European Lithic Artifacts

Two rare Turkic inscriptions written in Cyrillic script on lithic artifacts from the 14th–15th centuries have been identified, shedding light on cultural assimilation during the Golden Horde period. One inscription was found on a casting mold in Bolgar, Tatarstan, while another, dated uncertainly, originated from Polotsk, Belarus. Both inscriptions reveal Turkic language adapted to Cyrillic script, hinting at the influence of Russian culture, literacy, and Christianity among steppe and forest-steppe populations. The study analyzes paleographic aspects, historical context, and suggests translations of key terms, including references to tribal structures and pagan beliefs. These findings underscore the complex interplay between Turkic, Slavic, and Islamic cultures during this transitional period.

Medyntseva, A. A., Koval, V. Y., & Badeev, D. Y. (2020). Turkic Inscriptions in Cyrillic on 14th-15th Century Eastern European Lithic Artifacts. Archaeology, Ethnology & Anthropology of Eurasia, 47(4), 105–111. https://doi.org/10.17746/1563-0110.2019.47.4.105-111