Three Rare Neolithic Burials Discovered in Kostanay Region

Researchers from Akhmet Baitursynuly Kostanay Regional University have discovered three Neolithic burials in Auliekol District, dating to the seventh–fifth millennia BC, Orda.kz reports, citing the Ministry of Science.

Archaeologists found the remains of one child and two adults beneath the floors of ancient dwellings.

According to Irina Shevnina, a senior researcher at the university’s archaeological laboratory, excavations usually uncover stone and bone tools, pottery fragments and jewelry. Burials from the Stone Age are extremely rare not only in Kostanay Region, but across Kazakhstan.

The discovery was made during the Turgai archaeological expedition. This year, researchers are working at the Shili, Sulukol and Buryktal sites in Auliekol District.

The expedition also made another important discovery. While earlier research at the Shili site focused mainly on ancient settlements, archaeologists have now uncovered semi-dugout dwellings linked to the Makhanjar culture for the first time. The burials were found beneath the floors of these structures.

Some ancient peoples of Central Asia and neighboring regions practiced burying the dead beneath the floors of their homes.

Scientists will now conduct anthropological examinations, radiocarbon dating and other laboratory tests. These studies should help determine the exact age of the burials and provide more information about Neolithic life in the territory of modern Kazakhstan.

Original author: Raushan Korzhumbekova

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