New Rock Art Discoveries Unearthed in Kazakhstan’s Almaty Region!
Archaeologists Explore the Serektas River Valley
Archaeologists from the Margulan Institute of Archaeology have recently uncovered a wealth of historical treasures in Kazakhstan’s Almaty region. As part of the Serektas Archaeological Expedition, these experts have been diligently excavating various settlements in the Serektas River valley, while also surveying the surrounding landscape for additional discoveries.
Photo Credit: Margulan Institute of Archaeology
Discoveries in the Serektas River Gorges
During their exploration of the Serektas River gorges, the team identified several significant sites. Among these were small campsites from the late Middle Ages and five distinct clusters of rock art. One particularly notable find among these rock art clusters is a depiction of a yurt, a traditional nomadic dwelling. Other clusters feature zoomorphic images of various animals and a tamga, an abstract seal or stamp used by Eurasian nomads to brand livestock. Tamgas were commonly used by tribes, clans, or family groups during Classical Antiquity and the Middle Ages to establish identity.
Unearthing Riches at Serektas-2
At a settlement site designated Serektas-2, the archaeologists unearthed an impressive array of archaeological materials. These finds include 727 fragments of ceramics, 83 stone tools such as hammers, polishers, and grinders, a bronze object, and 38 bone artefacts crafted from cattle bone. This site provides a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and tool-making practices of the region’s historical inhabitants.
Photo Credit: Margulan Institute of Archaeology
Structural Remains and Artifacts at Serektas-1
Another site, known as Serektas-1, revealed the remains of a structure measuring 6 by 4 metres with a northwest-southeast orientation. Further excavation of this settlement uncovered a substantial collection of osteological material, including 200 bone fragments. Additionally, over 60 ceramic pieces, spindle whorls, bone awls, iron fragments, glass pieces, and various stone tools like grinders, polishers, and pestle-like stones were found. These artefacts add to the understanding of the material culture and daily activities of the area's past inhabitants.
Conclusion: A Glimpse Into the Past
These discoveries in the Almaty region not only enhance our understanding of the historical significance of the Serektas River valley but also provide a deeper insight into the lives, practices, and artistic expressions of the people who once thrived in this region.