Ancient Settlement of Kesken-Kuyuk-Kala
In 1946, an expedition led by the esteemed archaeologist Sergei Tolstov uncovered a previously unknown settlement near the Aral Sea in Kazakhstan. No historical records about the settlement were discovered, and its original name remains unknown. The archaeologists named their find Kesken-Kuyuk.
A City on a Swamp
The expedition team conducted an aerial survey and mapped the settlement. Kesken-Kuyuk is a circular site, measuring 830 by 710 meters (908 by 776 yd) and encircled by adobe brick walls. Its layout is characteristic of medieval towns. At its center, on a hill, was the shakhristan, where merchants and artisans lived. In the southwestern part of the shakhristan stood a citadel, the residence of the city nobility. The outskirts, known as the rabat, were home to peasants.
Researchers believe the settlement originated around the 7th century and reached its peak between the 7th and 9th centuries. Kesken-Kuyuk is described as a "swamp settlement," a term introduced by Tolstov for settlements at the mouth of the Syrdarya River, built on silty soil.
Intriguing Discoveries
Regrettably, the buildings were poorly preserved due to harsh climate conditions, wet soil, and perishable building materials. The artifacts found were also in poor condition. Arrowheads and coins were heavily rusted, and only fragments of pottery remained. Among the most interesting finds was a spindle fragment, indicating that the inhabitants had knowledge of fiber production. The most unusual artifact was a bronze asyk. Traditionally, asyks are ram heel bones used for games and fortune-telling. Creating a bronze asyk required significant skill, suggesting a high level of craftsmanship in the settlement.
How to get there?
Kesken-Kuyuk-Kala is located in the Kyzylorda region of Kazakhstan, 30 km (19 mi) south of the village of Bekarystan Bi and 65 km (40 mi) southwest of the village of Aiteke Bi.
Other tourist attractions near the settlement:
- Ancient Settlement of Jankent
- Mausoleum of Kuttybai
- Saraman-Kosa Tower
- Begim Ana Tower
- Mausoleum of Tolybai Batyr
Recommended tours:
View all offers
On request
Embark on a 9-day off-road expedition to the northern reaches of Kazakhstan’s Aral Sea. Discover hidden, untouristed gems, traverse long routes, camp under the stars, and embrace the rugged beauty of salt flats and dusty trails.