In a recent archaeological discovery, a team led by Zhanbolat Utubaev of the Margulan Institute of Archaeology has unearthed 10 centuries-old burial mounds, known as kurgans, in the Ulytau region of central Kazakhstan. These kurgans date back to the Middle Ages, offering a glimpse into the lives and customs of the people who inhabited the region during that period.
Three of the kurgans are particularly intriguing, categorized as “mustache kurgans” due to their distinctive feature of stone ridges running across their tops. “Mustached” kurgans from the Middle Ages are not uncommon in Kazakhstan; over 400 have been found in central Kazakhstan alone, showcasing their significance in the region’s history. These mounds range in diameter from 3 to 15 meters, suggesting varying scales of burial rituals and social hierarchies.
The team excavated one kurgan lacking the “mustache” feature, uncovering the remains of a man alongside an arrowhead. While the man’s identity and cause of death remain unclear, further research promises to shed light on his life and the era he lived in. The exact dating of these newly discovered kurgans is still under investigation, but their apparent Middle Ages origin aligns with the known history of Kazakhstan during that time. This period saw a blend of nomadic and settled societies.
The city of Taraz, located in southeastern Kazakhstan, flourished as a major stop along the Silk Road, connecting China and Europe. This suggests a significant presence of settled populations engaged in trade and commerce. However, nomadic groups also played a pivotal role in the region’s history, notably the Mongols who conquered Kazakhstan in the 13th century. The discovered kurgans may predate the Mongol conquest, providing valuable evidence of nomadic cultures that existed prior to this pivotal event.
The team’s research is ongoing, and further excavations of the kurgans are planned, promising to reveal more secrets about the people who lived in Kazakhstan during the Middle Ages and their fascinating blend of nomadic and settled lifestyles.
