President Putin inspects archeological excavations - 17 July, 2004 - News

Russian President Vladimir Putin attended archeological excavations of an ancient fortress in Staraya Ladoga (Leningrad region).

Academician Anatoly Kirpichnikov, head of the archeological expedition, accompanied the President.

He spoke about the building dating back to 896, which was discovered during the excavations. According to the academician, some amber was found inside the building, so it might have been a jeweler's shop.

The President was also shown the finds made in 2003-2004 and dating back to the late 9th - early 10th centuries. Vladimir Putin was interested in an ancient spear. The spear with an unbroken shaft was found for the first time. Its length is 190 cm, said Anatoly Kirpichnikov.