Stone masonry from the era of Prince Oleg the Prophet in the fortress of Old Ladoga.
© Photo: Alexander Drozdenko/Telegram
Alexander Drozdenko, the Governor of the Leningrad Region, has announced a significant archaeological discovery: stone masonry dating back to the era of Prince Oleg the Prophet was found within the fortress of Old Ladoga.
According to Drozdenko, this discovery, made by the 2025 archaeological expedition just before Old Ladoga Day, is unprecedented. He expressed hope that the researchers` efforts would significantly deepen the understanding of the early stages of Russian statehood.
The Governor further recalled that the history of the Ladoga fortress began around 860-870 AD with wooden fortifications erected after enemy raids. By the 10th century, these wooden walls were replaced by a formidable stone citadel. Today, scientists continue to meticulously uncover these ancient, centuries-hidden walls, layer by layer.
Established around the mid-8th century, Ladoga is recognized as the first urban settlement in Northern Rus. It served as a crucial hub for trans-European trade and craft production.
Modern-day Old Ladoga is a remarkable archaeological complex, encompassing over fifty sites, ranging from Neolithic settlements to medieval fortresses, churches, and necropolises. Of particular importance are the well-preserved archaeological artifacts from the 8th to 12th centuries found within this territory.
