kurgan

A kurgan is a type of ancient burial mound commonly associated with the ancient Indo-European steppe cultures. These burial mounds can be found in regions such as Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Caucasus. Kurgans are significant archaeological features as they offer insights into the funerary practices and societal structures of the early Indo-European people. The construction of kurgans involved piling earth and stones over a burial chamber or tomb, often accompanied by grave goods. Some kurgans are known for their elaborate constructions and valuable artifacts, reflecting the status and importance of the deceased individuals. The term “kurgan hypothesis” is also used in historical linguistics and archaeology to suggest the possible origins and migrations of the Indo-European language-speaking peoples.