Archaeologist Bekmukhanbet Nurmukhanbetov, a member of the expedition that discovered the famous “Golden Man,” announced recently that the Saka mounds in Issyk will soon be open to the public.
Nurmukhanbetov said that there are more than 100 Saka mounds and ancient Rahat and Orikty settlements in Issyk. Most of the mounds have not yet been explored. According to Nurmukhanbetov, during the excavations, the construction of underground tunnels through which tourists can go inside the mounds will be provided. Artifacts will remain in the tombs, and people can see the decoration of ancient tombs. No firm timeframe was provided for the project, although it is expected that its implementation will be a massive effort.
Nurmukhanbetov noted that the Saka mounds will be protected from looters. Archaeologists will have lots of work in preparing the mounds for visitors. They will need to clean the mounds and install electricity. The scientist added that volunteers are welcome to help the preparation effort.
