Xiaohe Cemetery

The Xiaohe Cemetery, also known as Ördek's Necropolis, is a Bronze Age archaeological site situated in western Xinjiang, China. Dating back to approximately 2000 BCE, the site is notable for its oblong sand dune shape and the remarkably preserved 'Tarim mummies' buried within. These mummies, found in air-tight ox-hide bags, exhibit a unique genetic heritage, showing links to both East Asian and West Eurasian populations. The cemetery's distinctive burial markers include wooden posts and human figurines that reflect the ritualistic practices of the time. The absence of nearby settlements suggests the site served a broader regional purpose, with bodies transported over significant distances for burial. Xiaohe Cemetery remains a key site for understanding the complex cultural and genetic landscape of ancient Eurasian populations.