Chemurchek culture

The Chemurchek culture is a Bronze Age archaeological culture situated in western Mongolia and neighboring regions, including the Dzungarian Basin of Xinjiang and eastern Kazakhstan. It flourished between approximately 2750 and 1900 BCE, following the Afanasievo culture. Characterized by large rectangular stone fences surrounding collective tombs, the culture featured unique anthropomorphic standing stones with flattened faces, straight noses, and globular eyes. These stelae are indicative of complex burial practices and suggest cultural exchanges or migrations from Western Europe. The Chemurchek people left behind artifacts such as stone bowls, bone tools, ceramics, and bronze items, highlighting a sophisticated material culture. Genetic analysis indicates a blend of Afanasievo and local populations, with European connections suggested by similar stelae found in Southern France.