Legend of Secret Cossack Tunnels Revived After Underground Discovery in Pervomaisk, Ukraine

A surprising archaeological discovery has captured public attention in Ukraine, where construction workers uncovered underground structures during renovation works near a central stadium in Pervomaisk. The finding has reignited long-standing local legends about hidden Cossack tunnels beneath the Southern Bug River.

Unexpected Discovery During Construction

The discovery occurred while workers were reconstructing a basement space beneath a former beer bar located near the city’s central stadium. As excavation began, builders stumbled upon two deep underground niches made of stone, each stretching up to 10 meters in length.

Initially, the structures sparked excitement among residents, many of whom associate the area with folklore about secret underground passages allegedly built by Cossacks in the 18th century. According to the legend, these tunnels once connected different settlements beneath the river, serving as hidden routes during times of conflict.

Historical Context Behind the Structures

However, local historians and officials suggest a far less mythical explanation. According to tourism advisor Volodymyr Voitenko, the site was once home to an old settlement dating back over 200 years. This settlement, known historically as Holta, was eventually abandoned due to repeated flooding.

Voitenko explained that when residents relocated to higher ground, many of the original stone buildings—including their basements—were left behind. Over time, these structures were buried, particularly during the 1950s when the stadium was constructed on top of the area.

He also noted that the region has long experienced soil instability, which further supports the idea that numerous buried basements may still exist beneath the surface.

Scientific Insights and Lost Artifacts

Historian Oksana Doroshenko, a former museum director and candidate of historical sciences, provided additional context. She referenced a scientific initiative from the 1920s known as the Bug Expedition, which studied settlements along the Southern Bug River.

The findings from this expedition contributed to the establishment of a local history museum. Although many artifacts were lost after World War II, archival materials from the research are still preserved at Ukraine’s Institute of Archaeology.

These records further support the theory that the newly discovered structures are remnants of historical buildings rather than hidden tunnels.

Builders Dismiss Tunnel Theories

Construction workers on-site have also dismissed the idea that the niches are part of an underground tunnel system. They describe the structures as typical хозяйственные (utility) basements built with rubble stone, commonly used in older architecture.

Project contractor Ruslan Ostapenko emphasized that the dimensions and structure of the niches do not match what would be expected from large-scale underground passages. He also pointed out the historical context: during the 18th century, the Southern Bug River served as a border between the Russian Empire and the Ottoman Empire.

Given this geopolitical significance, constructing extensive underground tunnels without detection would have been highly unlikely.

Public Curiosity and Safety Concerns

Despite expert opinions, the discovery has attracted curious locals eager to explore what they believe could be legendary tunnels. Many have visited the site hoping to catch a glimpse of the underground structures.

However, access to the excavation area is strictly prohibited due to safety regulations. Officials have warned that entering the pit without proper authorization poses serious risks.

Future Plans for the Site

Looking ahead, developers plan to continue reconstruction and improve the surrounding infrastructure near the stadium. While no significant archaeological excavation is currently planned, officials remain open to preserving any historically valuable artifacts if discovered.

Although the mystery may not involve hidden Cossack tunnels, the discovery still offers a fascinating glimpse into the layered history of Pervomaisk—proving that even routine construction can uncover stories buried beneath the surface.

Cover Image credit: Суспільне Миколаїв/Юрій Островершенко