SOUTH-KAZAKHSTAN REGION – An archaeological expedition of the Central State Museum has discovered a rare burial site dating back to the second century B.C. on the banks of the Arys River.
Excavations along the Arys River, which have been in process for several years, have unearthed artefacts. Scientists now concur that there was a settlement from the Kang-kü era at the Kultobe burial site there. The Kang-kü state is still considered to be the most mysterious and little known in the region.
This field season was generous with findings: archaeologists opened a tomb with a well-preserved vault. As expected, the vault had been plundered sometime in the distant past, probably immediately after the burial. Only a few ornaments were intact: necklaces of Egyptian paste and twisted beads, pottery, a souvenir frog and a three-feather arrowhead. Professor Alexander Podushkin, doctor of historical sciences, says the jewellery and household articles point to close economic and trade relations with the Black Sea coast states.
But the burial next to it appeared to have been untouched by vandals. It retained articles of archaeological interest: a bronze ring with amber, gilt beads, a few pitchers and a unique incense burner used in ceremonies. Last but not least, it held massive gold earrings inlaid with natural rubies with the so-called gold-turquoise polychrome finish.
All artefacts will be sent to the Central State Museum of Kazakhstan.
