Ashgabat (TDI): Archaeologists have made significant strides in uncovering the secrets of an ancient civilization in Turkmenistan’s Karakum desert, where large-scale excavations continue at the historic site of Gonur-Depe.
This ancient settlement, discovered in 1972, holds the key to understanding the Margush civilization, which flourished around 4,000 years ago in the Murghab River delta.
The Turkmen-Russian Margush Archaeological Expedition, which includes experts from the Russian Academy of Sciences and Turkmen researchers, is nearing the conclusion of its current excavation season.
The team has uncovered numerous intriguing artifacts, contributing valuable insights into the life and culture of this ancient civilization.
Among the notable discoveries are a miniature cylindrical seal made of talc-agalmatolite, a clay bulla fragment with snake-shaped seal imprints, and a unique clay lid from a vessel bearing the imprints of a rope and a cloisonné seal.
These artifacts offer glimpses into the daily life and craftsmanship of Margiana’s ancient inhabitants.
Particularly fascinating is the discovery of semi-precious stone beads in five burial sites.
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The intricacy of the beadwork, including lapis lazuli beads measuring just 1 millimeter in diameter, has impressed modern researchers, showcasing the remarkable skill of ancient jewelers.
Additionally, the excavation revealed a gypsum kiln used by ancient builders, enabling archaeologists to reconstruct the technology employed in producing building materials at Gonur-Depe for the first time.
The findings from this excavation will be discussed at an international scientific conference in Ashgabat, where scholars from around the world will convene to explore the significance of these discoveries and their implications for understanding the ancient Margiana civilization.
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These latest findings at Gonur-Depe not only enhance our knowledge of the ancient inhabitants of the region but also highlight the value of international collaboration in the field of archaeology.
Each discovery brings us closer to unlocking the mysteries of an ancient civilization that once thrived in the heart of the Karakum desert.
