Ancient Settlement of Kastek
Kastek, a historic settlement located near the eponymous gorge in the Almaty region, holds great significance in both the Silk Road trade route and the region's cultural heritage. The strategic location of Kastek made it an important link in ensuring the safety of the Silk Road. It also provided easy access to the Chuy Valley and facilitated travel to larger medieval settlements. Its historical importance is mentioned in Arabic chronicles.
In 2011, archaeological excavations of the ancient city commenced, revealing a vast site covering more than 20 hectares, equivalent to 28 football fields. Among the ruins unearthed by archaeologists were fortress walls, towers, and residential structures. The central part of the city, known as the Shahristan, encompassed an area of 4 hectares and was inhabited by affluent residents, while the less prosperous inhabitants lived outside its protective walls. Notable features that have been relatively well preserved include the western wall, several towers, and a section of the main road lined with stones.
Excavations at Kastek have yielded a wide array of artifacts, such as ancient tandoors (clay ovens), remnants of brickwork, medieval firewood, bones, ceramics, metal products, lamps, and items made from semi-precious stones. The presence of cast-iron products, colored glass, women's hairpins reflecting Chinese and Japanese styles, sets of surgical instruments, remnants of a water pipe, and a painted jug made of imported clay all testify to the city's prosperity and its participation in cultural exchanges.
The inhabitants of the ancient city engaged in various occupations, including cattle breeding, agriculture, tanning, glass-blowing, and blacksmithing. This diverse economic base supported the growth and development of Kastek, contributing to its prominence during the 10-13th centuries. The archaeological research conducted has identified five distinct cultural layers within the settlement, with notable periods including the Karluk (7-10th centuries) and Kara-Khanid (10-13th centuries) eras. Furthermore, in 2019, the excavation of the deepest layer revealed traces dating back to the end of the 7th century BC.
Beyond the city's boundaries, several Uysun tribe burials were discovered; however, they had been looted long before the archaeological investigation took place.
How to get there?
To reach the ancient settlement of Kastek from Almaty, take the A-2 highway passing through the villages of Irgeli, Almalybak, Uzynagash, Kainazar, and Talap. The distance is approximately 85 km (53 mi), which can be covered in about 2 hours.
Other tourist attractions near the ancient settlement of Kastek:
- Monument to Suinbai Aronuly
- Karakastek Gorge
- Museum of Jambyl
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