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THE VALLEY OF THE rRTKH 151
with less ornament, tlie classical tombs of Asia Minor, and ditler
entirely in type from the elongated Tartar headstones found elsewhere
on the north side of the Caucasus, on whicli the horse,
arms and accoutrements of the deceased are often depicted in
low relief
These tombs may perhaps be taken to represent a transitional
stage between the simple heap of stones or pyramid which
formed the first human monument and the elaborate edifices of
later civilisations. The shelf which serves to support the trophies
OSSETE IOMU.S Al /.lNA(;u
of the chase— chiefly horns of the Tur or Caucasian ibex— left as
otierings to the departed, may have suggested the carving of
animals' heads as an ornament on the structure itself in after times.
The district of Digoria, named from the Ossete tribe who
inhabit it, was at one time a debatable land. After the Turkish
hordes had occupied the steppe and driven in the borders of the old
Ossete dominion, they proceeded to take possession of the valleys
of Chegem and Balkar and to spread their influence into Digoria.
The people are now mixed, and their religions are confused, though
the Ossetes and a nominal Christianity still prevail.
The arrival of so important a caravan drew the usual Caucasian