New early medieval monuments of the Kazakh Altai have been investigated
01 Oct 2024
In the 2024 field season, as part of the grant-funded project titled “Interdisciplinary Study of the Cultural Complex of the Kimaks in the Kazakh Altai,” the Altai Archaeological Team, led by A.K. Aitkali, conducted comprehensive scientific research at the “Zhuldyz-1” burial site, located in the Ulken Naryn district of the East Kazakhstan region, 2 km west of the village of the same name.
During the fieldwork, a thorough topographic survey of the burial site was carried out, allowing for the creation of an accurate plan of its layout and structure. In addition, the excavation of several stone-covered burial mounds provided the opportunity for an in-depth analysis of the architectural and structural features of these types of funerary monuments.
The investigation of the burial and commemorative structures revealed unique elements of construction technology, which testify to the high level of craftsmanship and specific traditions characteristic of the early medieval population. Furthermore, during the excavations, components of the buried warriors' equipment were discovered, including weapons and horse gear. These finds vividly illustrate the customs and rituals of the early medieval population of the region, as well as its military traditions and social structure.
Thus, the results of the research significantly deepen our understanding of the cultural and historical context of the monuments and open new prospects for interdisciplinary studies in the archaeology of Central Asia.
