Dnieper-Dvina Culture

a culture of the Early Iron Age widespread from the seventh-sixth century B.C. to the third century A.D. in the Smolensk Dnieper Region, the Byelorussian Dvina Region, and the Sebezh Lakes region. The culture is characterized by large fortified settlements with several earthen walls. The surface-level dwellings were of pole construction. The early ones were long and multichambered and the later ones, small and rectangular, with open hearths. Implements and weapons were at first made of bone and bronze, later of iron. Typical ornaments are long bronze, crosier-shaped pins and earrings with a hook. The pottery is rounded and is characterized by a smooth surface. The population engaged in forest stock raising and some agriculture (hunting was important in the early stages) and maintained ties with the neighboring Baltic and FinnoUgric tribes.