Archaeologists have carried out rescue excavations of two Bronze Age burials, according to local news sources.
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| Credit: inform.kz |
The burials were discovered by local residents on the left bank of the Irgiz River, 300 metres from the village of Shenbertal in the Aktobe region. Archaeologists led by Nursultan Bairov were called upon to investigate the findings in early October.
"The Schenbertal I burial ground is located in the area of the Stone Age site, which was discovered in the second half of the last century. It occupies an area of 2500 sq. m. and consists of 10 previously discovered burial pits. We excavated two single burials, both of which were significantly damaged", Baibov said.
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| Credit: inform.kz |
A preliminary analysis of the artefacts and adornments found in the graves suggests the deceased are probably female, buried lying on their right side in foetal position, with hands raised to their heads. Two decorated ceramic vessels had been placed at the heads. Bronze bracelets, pendants and a sickle-shaped tool were also found in the graves.
Given the position of the skeletons and the grave goods, the burials are thought to date back to the Bronze Age, during which time the territory of Western Kazakhstan was inhabited by the
Andronovo tribes in the 2nd millennium (referred to as the Alakul phase).
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| Credit: inform.kz |
"The burial ground is in a very poor state due to constant weathering and economic activities of the local population. Because of these circumstances, it is necessary to immediately continue the study of the site, and excavations will continue at the end of the month," said Nursultan Bairov.
Source: NewTimes [trsl. TANN, November 07, 2019]
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