NEWS

Excavations continue

Kazakh archaeologists have almost completely restored the burial complex of the ancient Turkic Khaganate. It is located at the foot of the Tarbagatai range in Eastern Kazakhstan. So far, this is the only monument of this scale on the territory of our country.

The Turkic Khaganate was established in 552. Most of the monuments of that era have been preserved in Mongolia, the republics of Tyva and Altai. The burial and princely complex is a real sensation for Kazakhstan. It is located in the Eleke Sazy tract. Archaeological work began here in 2019.



In two years, scientists have almost completely restored the look of the burial. Its scale is clearly visible from a height. By the way, the complex almost completely resembles the lifetime rate of the Kagan.



It can be divided into three parts. First, visitors had to pass through the maze, and then make a sacrifice. They were usually sheep. After the necessary procedures, the pilgrims were cleansed by fire. In a room that looked like a truncated pyramid, a statue of the Kagan himself was waiting for them. It was carved out of stone.



The fate of this sculpture is quite dramatic. In Soviet times, it stood as a signpost on one of the state farm fields. Later it was moved to the Aksuat village Museum. The Kagan has no head. But the ruler's typesetting belt and regal bearing are clearly visible.


According to archaeologist Zeynolla Samashev, the complex was not empty. In those days, it was believed that a dead ruler still cares about his people. The deceased Kagan was asked to be cured of diseases, to help with the birth of children, and to breed livestock.



The area around the sanctuary is also of great interest. Mass graves were found here. Archaeologists think, that these are the graves of noble dignitaries who, after their death, bequeathed to bury them next to the ruler.

Author: Dmitry Krukovich
Photo: Yermek Imangazinov