In 2010, archaeologists will continue the research of the historical center of Vitebsk

March 22, Minsk / Olga Belyavskaya - BELTA /. Belarusian archaeologists will continue the study of the historical center of Vitebsk this year, the head of the center for the history of pre-industrial society of the Institute of History of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus, Olga Levko, told a BELTA correspondent. Scientists plan to start excavations as early as the end of March. Archaeological research will unfold at three sites - in the area adjacent to the Lower Castle from the Zaruchye side, near Uspenskaya Hill, as well as in one of the sections of Zamkovaya Street. "New research will help determine the ancient relief of the city's terrain, clarify the chronology of the development of its various sections and their relationship with certain populations," the interlocutor said. The scientists' research is closely related to construction work that is underway in Vitebsk. Scientists monitor such work and, if necessary, stop it for a detailed study of soil layers and the extraction of archaeological materials from them. Olga Levko also added that interesting archaeological excavations will take place near Polotsk this year, in the area where a new hydroelectric power station is planned. "It is necessary to study the history of one of the ancient settlements here, for which about 2 thousand square meters of soil will have to be excavated," the specialist added. It is planned that Vitebsk students will be involved in this project. The Institute of History of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus conducts fundamental scientific research on history and archaeology, carries out protective archaeological excavations, and organizes the examination of the most important scientific programs and projects in the cultural and historical sphere. The institution constantly develops partnerships with scientific institutions of other states, maintains contacts with scientists from neighboring countries, including Russia, Ukraine, and Poland. This year, Belarusian scientists plan to conduct joint excavations with specialists from the National Institute of Preventive Archaeology of France in the area of Napoleon's troops crossing the Berezina River in 1812. -0-