Ancient Finds Emerge from Dried Reservoir in Turkistan Region

Researchers from the Zhanibekov University Archaeological Center worked in the Ordabasy District of the Turkistan Region, on the territory of the Bogen Reservoir, Orda.kz reports, citing the Ministry of Science.

Due to dry weather, the water level in the reservoir dropped significantly, allowing the expedition to explore historical and cultural monuments previously hidden under water.

Archaeologists worked for a week and found tools dating back to the Late Paleolithic and Mesolithic: about ten chalcedony stones, cores, and cutting and processing plates.

All artifacts that appeared on the surface as a result of erosion were carefully studied.

In addition, experts excavated several burial sites from the Late Bronze Age.

Although the human remains were poorly preserved, archaeologists were able to find ceramic vessels with geometric designs, a gold-plated temple ornament with a bronze base, rings, bracelets, hoop earrings, and many small beads for a headdress, the Ministry of Science and Technology reported. Similar discoveries have not been made in the Turkistan Region before.

The expedition also uncovered a burial site from the Kangly-Sarmatian period, where they found a warrior's inventory: three sleeved arrowheads with down-turned wings, a utility knife, a jug, and a belt buckle (toga).

The finds date to the 1st century BC – 1st century AD, confirming that the territory of the region has been continuously inhabited since ancient times.

The excavations were carried out jointly with the staff of the National Historical and Cultural Reserve. All artifacts will be studied and transferred to a museum.

Original Author: Oksana Matvienko