Locuințele așezărilor din Muntenia în secolele VIII-X
Settlement Dwellings from the VIII-X Centuries in Walachia

Summary/Abstract: The characteristics of structures for dwelling or other functions dating to the VIIIX centuries is an important area of research. This study presents the sum of knowledge of the identified and investigated structures interpreted as dwellings or household annexes in settlements of the VIII-X centuries. To date 325 dwellings or buildings have been indexed: 203 pit dwellings; 82 surface dwellings; 26 pit-huts dwellings; 6 of non specific type; and 8 unique structures - 5 buildings and 3 knezes fortifications from Slon, Prahova county. Analysis of the surface or pit dwellings is conditioned by a minimal set of data: planimetry; depth; foundation and wall types; location of fireplace facilities; and other specific elements or household facilities. The construction techniques of surface dwellings are less known than those of pit houses. This is in part influenced by the preservation of surface dwellings The construction of pit houses differs from that of surface dwellings mainly because a part of the house is dug into the ground. Pit house construction implies a different type of technical thought; builders must find solutions for many issues including water infiltration, rainwater removal, and roof fixing. The below ground part of a pit dwelling is the best preserved, and, if not disturbed by later interventions, can be clearly revealed through archaeological investigation. Dwelling facilities during the VIII-X centuries are not spectacular, perhaps because the living space is quite small. This fact might help explain the relationships between inhabitants and household areas. It is very likely the dwellings are just shelters for use overnight and during unfavorable weather with most of the family or community activities taking place outside. The main domestic feature is the fireplace facility having two functions: food preparation and heating. Another component of the dwellings is the entrance, complete with its various facilities such as steps and passages. Other domestic features of the dwellings are benches, used as sleeping spaces ('beds') or as storage for pottery, and various pits of undetermined meaning and utility. It is very likely there were other facilities made of perishable materials, wood for example, that have not been preserved.

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