Ancient ‘moustache’ burial mounds discovered in Kazakhstan

Archaeologists recently discovered ten ancient burial mounds, known as kurgans, in the Ulytau region of Kazakhstan. These kurgans, which date back to the Middle Ages, include several with a distinctive feature: stone ledges that resemble moustaches. Zhanbolat Utubaev, an archaeologist at the Margulan Institute of Archaeology, led the team that made this fascinating discovery. These so-called “moustache” kurgans are a major find in the study of medieval Kazakhstan.

Details of the discovery

The ten kurgans vary in size, with diameters ranging from about 10 to 50 feet (3 to 15 meters), according to the study. Three of them are identifiable by their moustaches, due to the unique stone ridges that intersect them. One specific kurgan, which does not have the moustache design, was excavated to reveal the remains of a man who was buried with a triangular arrowhead. While the exact identity and cause of death have yet to be determined, further investigation may yield additional details.

Historical context

These mounds are believed to date back to the Middle Ages, a period characterized by both settled and nomadic lifestyles in Kazakhstan. Settled communities flourished in cities such as Taraz, a major hub on the Silk Road, while nomadic groups roamed other regions. The recently discovered kurgans may belong to these nomadic groups, which predate the Mongol conquests of the 13th century.

Ongoing research

The Margulan Institute of Archaeology, headed by Zhanbolat Utubaev, continues to investigate these kurgans. The excavation team’s ongoing research aims to shed light on the customs and lives of the people who built these mounds. Future to research can provide deeper insight into medieval customs and the significance of these intriguing burial sites.