The Village of Merke
The village of Merke, situated in the Zhambyl Region of southern Kazakhstan, stands as one of the oldest settlements in the country. In antiquity, it bore the name Mirki, derived from Farsi, signifying "the center." Historical records dating back to 945 AD make reference to Merke, describing it as a prosperous settlement in proximity to Kulan, an ancient Silk Road site within the Chang'an-Tien Shan corridor.
The tribes that once inhabited this region were primarily engaged in agriculture, a fact substantiated by the discovery of grains in the soil. Further archaeological findings, such as fragments of lamps and dishes, attest to the flourishing craftsmanship of jewelry, metalworking, and the production of glass and metal goods.
As of the 2019 population census, Merke was home to approximately 12,000 residents. The village boasts essential amenities like schools, hospitals, medical centers, hotels, restaurants, parks, kindergartens, various shops, and banks.
Nestled in the foothills, Merke's local landscapes add to the region's allure for tourists. The surrounding areas offer notable attractions, including the eponymous gorge and the neighboring Karakystak Valley adorned with petroglyphs and balbals – ancient stone statues resembling people. The nearby Kyrgyz Alatau mountains feature the Botbay Ata Monument, the Merke balneological resort, and diverse recreational areas.
How to get there?
You can reach Merke from Taraz by taking the A-2 highway, with the journey typically taking around 1.5 hours. The distance covered along this route is approximately 155 km (96 mi). For those starting their journey from Almaty, the distance to Merke is 342 km (213 mi) when following the A-2 highway.
Tourist attractions near the village:
- Ak-Niet Health Resort
- Merke Balneological Resort
- Karakystak Memorial Complex
- Mausoleum of Dulat Baba
- Ancient ruins of the Kulan settlement
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