Victoria Russeva
Recently uncovered complexes for first time reveal trepanned skulls from South East Bulgaria – one from Early Iron Age pit complex near Svilengrad (VIII-VI c. BC), with real (surgical) trepanation and remaining from two Middle Age (XI – XIII c.) necropolises – Anhialo, one skull with real (surgical) and one with symbolic (incomplete) trepanation and Zlatna livada, one skull with symbolic (incomplete) trepanation. To this type of findings can be ascribed rondellae and rests of a fragmented skull vault, with artificially cut left side from chalkolitic settlement of Kozareva mogila. Between cited sites can not be seen chronological, cultural or ethnical continuity. The comparative analysis of distribution of such findings, reveal their appearance in complexes with different chronological position, cultural context and ethnical interpretation on vast territory of Asia and Europe, pointing to spread medical knowledge in traditions of many peoples. Phases of appearance and disappearance, presence and lack in close populations of such findings and pathological changes on skeletal remains from newly uncovered complexes can be a clue, that the manipulation was used in specific temporary situation, as a strike of infection. Religious believes and medical practices, dealing with life and death, interact and can’t get divided in interpretation of discussed material.