History of Archaeological Research on Main Oil Pipelines During the Independence Period

Based on archival materials and scientific publications, the history of archaeological monument research within the framework of the construction of main oil pipelines in Ukraine is considered.

It has been established that archaeological investigations and excavations on these linear objects began only after Ukraine regained its independence. During the Soviet period, archaeologists were excluded from participating in such construction, which, hypothetically, led to the destruction of hundreds of unknown diverse archaeological monuments. Unique facts of destruction were recorded in 1995–1999 during inspections of the sites of existing Druzhba Oil Pipeline.

From 1996 to 2009, surveys and rescue excavations covered almost 1,200 km of new oil pipeline routes, resulting in the discovery and partial investigation of 187 archaeological sites from the Mesolithic to the Modern period.

The attention is drawn to the fact that oil pipelines construction has a significant negative impact on archaeological heritage and will continue to be a serious problem for the monument protection field.

It is emphasized that, for the effective protection of the archaeological heritage, it is important to provide proper scientific support for oil pipeline construction projects from the very beginning of their planning.

The leading role and experience of the Rescue Archaeological Service in conducting preventive archaeological research during the design and construction of new and reconstruction of existing oil pipelines are described.