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Kazakhstan

Araltobe kurgan

Sarmatian burial mound with gold objects

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

The Araltobe kurgan, located in northwestern Kazakhstan near Araltobe, Zhylyoi District, represents a significant archaeological site attributed to the post-Saka Sarmatian culture. Dating back to the 3rd-2nd century BCE, this burial mound contains the remains of a 'Golden Man', a title given due to the approximately 400 gold objects uncovered within the tomb. The site bears similarities to other notable kurgans in the region, such as those at Issyk and Shilikty, known for their rich burial offerings. Among the artifacts discovered were long swords with T-shaped and mushroom-shaped pommels, typical of Scythian and Saka weaponry, yet also found in Sauromatian contexts. This kurgan offers valuable insights into the cultural and artistic practices of the Sarmatians, reflecting their connections and interactions with neighboring cultures during the Iron Age.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Araltobe kurgan

FileAraltobe_golden_vest_detail.jpg
FileAraltobe_kurgan_chief.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Burial and Funerary Structures

TombsFunerary Mounds

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Kazakhstan
Source
Wikipedia