This textbook is devoted to the history of the formation and development of culture and life of the peoples of the Volga region from ancient times to the medieval era, when culture began to develop in a new paradigm due to the influence of the state and monotheistic religions. The main material in the textbook is related to the region of the Middle Volga. The textbook is intended for students, graduate students and university teachers in the areas of "theory and history of culture," "cultural studies," "archeology." It can be used by school and college teachers, as well as museum workers.