Pyany Bor culture

The Pyany Bor culture (also transliterated Pjanobor or Pyanobor) is an Iron Age archaeological culture associated with the Volga and Ural regions of Russia.

The Pyany Bor culture developed from the lower Kama group of Ananyino culture. The Pyany Bor occupied territory north of the Kama and east of the Volga between the 2nd century BC and 2nd century AD. Subsistence was likely focused on pastoralism, hunting, and fishing. Through the Silk Routes, Pyany Bor people accessed goods from East Asia as well as the Roman Empire. They also traded with the nearby Andreevka-Pyseraly culture.

Domestic animals, particularly horses, feature prominently in Pyany Bor burials. Horse mandibles, skulls, and leg bones have been associated with Pyany Bor burial rituals. Wild animals were used for religious rituals; teeth and bones of predators were crafted into magical amulets and charms.

The Azelino and Mazuzino cultures are believed to have developed out of the Pyany Bor culture in the 3rd century.