The Traditional Housing of Mordvinian Settlers in Siberia

Abstract

The article examines the traditional housing of Mordvinian settlers in Siberia and is based on field-work data collected in 2003-2009. Mordvinians belong among those ethnic groups that feature a complex ethnic history, and one of the specificities of the group is a wide geographical spread of its settlement. The development of the housing type of Mordva went through several stages. The first stage had to do with the choice of territory; the second, transitional, with the search for the acceptable permanent housing; and the third with the development of the housing form which is perfected until it becomes traditional. Presently, Mordvinians experience an increasing influence of other cultures and ethnic groups, and this tells on Mordva’s housing choices as well as other aspects of livelihood. This situation makes the undertaken study especially relevant.