1,500-year-old artefacts found in Turkistan region

A number of valuable archaeological finds were made by residents of Turkistan region. Artifacts of the 12 to 1 centuries BC are literally found in the backyards in Zhuzimdik village and donated to the local museum. Currently, there are 152 exhibits, including oshak altar (fireplace altar), talismans, housewares, shokpar (mace) and even an ancient balbal (kurgan stelae). According to the conclusion of historians, in the era of the Kangui state, an ancient city was located in the area of this village. The first excavations began here in the mid-80s. An underground tunnel and the rarest antiquities were found then. Later, they were donated to museums in Almaty and Moscow.

“The museum displays numerous artifacts, ranging from exhibits dated BC and 5-6th centuries AD. Archaeologists opined that the Kangui state existed here in the Middle Ages, it belongs to the period of Karakhanid rule. A large settlement was located here. It is assumed that it also served as a summer residence for Khans of the Kangui state. According to the finds, we can say that this was an industrial and craft center,” said Museum Director Kairat Ussenov.

Translation by Saniya Sakenova

Editing by Galiya Khassenkhanova