PRELIMINARY RESULTS OF THE RESCUE ARCHAEOLOGICAL EXPEDITION «KHORTYTSIA-25»

Abstract

The destruction of the Kakhovka Hydroelectric Power Plant in 2023 resulted in a dramatic alteration of the hydrological regime of the Lower Dnieper and, consequently, in two overlapping processes. On the one hand, extensive areas previously submerged were exposed through large-scale drainage; on the other, intensified erosion of the shoreline within the former riverbed occurred as a result of uncontrolled water discharge. These processes led to the washing out of a significant number of shipbuilding-related objects, which have been recorded in the waters around Khortytsia Island. Since the remains of vessels at Naumova Rock were simultaneously located both on the surface and in a water environment, the «Khortytsia-25» rescue archaeological expedition required an integrated application of both underwater and terrestrial archaeological methods. During the fieldwork remains of vessels dating to 1737—1739 were discovered. It was determined that Object 1 should be preserved in situ through the installation of a protective cofferdam along the riverward side to mitigate further erosion. The structure was subsequently backfilled with sandbags and capped with a geotextile membrane. This approach has precedents, having been employed by American specialists on the Savannah River (USA) in 1992 as well as three years earlier, on Khortytsia Island. After the events of 2023 object 2 was left on the shoreline. It was comprehensively documented and subsequently relocated to a conservation facility. This decision entailed both advantages and disadvantages. The application of established conservation techniques based on polyethylene glycol (PEG) impregnation ensures long-term stabilization and preservation of wooden structures; however, it requires prolonged treatment under controlled and predictable conditions. In the context of ongoing military conflict, shifts in the frontline or drone attacks may disrupt these procedures. Object 2 was identified as the remains of the bow section of a dubel-shaloupe dating to 1737. It was determined that the vessel was destroyed after 1739 and partially burned during a fire on the shoreline. Despite its poor state of preservation, the site yielded valuable and informative evidence concerning European military shipbuilding in the first half of the eighteenth century, as well as a substantial assemblage of finds, including wooden artefacts. Object 3 proved to be the best protected; therefore, following preliminary examination, it was covered with geotextile and sand.