Archaeologists found an pendant in Russia showing a Christian saint and a Medusa-like figure

An 11th-century pendant was found in Staraya Russa combining Christian and pagan imagery. One side depicts a warrior saint, while the other shows a snake-haired woman. This artifact represents a fusion of Byzantine and local traditions. Such pendants likely served as protective amulets against illness and misfortune. The discovery highlights Staraya Russa’s cultural connections and local craft production.