The history of archaeological research conducted on the territory of Almaty and Zhetisu regions since the 30s of the 20th century

Abstract

This article is devoted to the history of archaeological research in the Almaty and Zhetisu regions. It presents a systematic overview of materials on the region’s monuments, collected by researchers from the 1930s to the early years of national independence. During this period, numerous ancient monuments spanning from the Bronze Age to the Middle Ages were discovered and partially studied in these two regions. The article analyzes the scientific reports of the Semirechye and Ili archaeological expeditions and highlights the contributions of prominent researchers such as A.N. Bernshtam, K.A. Akishev, G.A. Kushaev, E.I. Ageeva, and K.M. Baipakov. These studies facilitated the international recognition of the unique and rich Saka culture of Zhetisu and established a robust foundation for dating Saka antiquities in the region. For example, the Besshatyr Kurgan, discovered by K.A. Akishev, has become a significant monument alongside such sites as the Pazyryk and Bashadar kurgans in the Altai. Findings from the Myngshukur burial site (12th–10th centuries BCE) are also notable, where gold ornaments were discovered, indicating a high level of metallurgical technology and artistic skill in the “animal style” as early as the Bronze Age. The discovery of numerous centers of sedentary culture has led to a substantial shift in scholarly perspectives on the historical significance of this territory. Furthermore, the article discusses key discoveries, methodological advancements, and interdisciplinary approaches that have deepened the understanding of the historical importance of the Almaty and Zhetisu regions.