Archaeologists in Kazakhstan have uncovered a significant find in their ongoing excavations in the western Atyrau region. The team, led by archaeologist Marat Kasyanov, has revealed gold ornaments and weapons in the excavation of three burial mounds, dating back about 2,500 years, to the fifth century BC. This discovery sheds light on the prominence of the Sarmatian civilization in the area and challenges previous perceptions about the region’s historical importance.
A Rich Treasure Trove from the Past
More than 1,000 artifacts have been unearthed from these burial mounds, with approximately 100 pieces made of gold. These items are crafted in the distinctive “animal style” associated with the Sarmatians. According to Kasyanov, many of these objects feature depictions of predatory animals, such as leopards, wild boars, and tigers, which were prevalent in the region during that time. In addition to the gold ornaments, human remains, pottery, rare wooden bowls, and two black ‘touchstones’ with gold handles were also discovered. Remarkably, the wooden objects have not decayed despite their ancient origins.
Shifting Perspectives on Sarmatian Civilization
This excavation challenges the previous belief that the Atyrau region was merely on the fringes of the Sarmatian world. Kasyanov explains that the discovery suggests Atyrau might have been much closer to the core of the Sarmatian civilization, which was a dominant force in the steppe region between Eastern Europe and Central Asia from the fifth century BC onward.
Insights into Nomadic Life
The Sarmatians, a nomadic people, were part of a larger cultural network that spanned from the Black Sea to China. They were first documented in Persian texts by the fourth century AD, and their influence persisted until they were eventually joined by Germanic tribes like the Goths in the fifth century. These nomads are believed to have had a profound impact on the region’s history and culture, including interactions with the early Roman Empire.
The Karabau-2 Burial Mound
The ‘Karabau-2’ burial mound, located in Atyrau, has been a central site for many of these discoveries. Standing about 10 feet tall and measuring approximately 230 feet in diameter, the mound is believed to contain the remains of at least nine individuals, with two graves having been looted over the years. Excavations of nearby mounds have revealed additional graves, and among the findings is a 370-gram gold bracelet, which was found in one of the graves, offering further insight into the wealth and craftsmanship of the Sarmatian culture.