Uzbek and Chinese researchers cncluded a joint archaeological mission to study ancient settlements and strengthen cultural and historical cooperation in the Fergana Valley, a fertile, densely populated intermountain basin in Central Asia, nestled between the Tien Shan and Alay mountains.
This triangular valley shared by eastern Uzbekistan, southern Kyrgyzstan, and northern Tajikistan fed by the Naryn and Kara Darya rivers, which form the Syr Darya, bringing fertile silt is known for its rich historic cities like Kokand, as a Silk Road hub.
This large valley is also famous for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, playing a key role in agriculture (especially cotton, silk, and fruits), and also renowned for traditional crafts liker Rishtan ceramics and Margilan Silk.
A joint archaeological team from China’s Shanxi Province arrived in the Uzbek valley to lead extensive field research concluded on 30th December 2025, a mission brought together specialist from leading archaeological and academic institutions in Shanxi and conducted in cooperation with a major Uzbek University as reported by Xinhua News Agency.
The joint mission aimed to examine the region’s burial practices and the layout of historical urban centres across Uzbekistan, with findings from the project expected to deepen understanding of historical interactions between China and Central Asia and support ongoing cultural and academic exchanges.
According to the Chinese research team, the project focused on systematic surveys and excavations of ancient sites across the valley with planned work includes archaeological prospecting with excavations led at the Arsif burial site located in the southern part of the Fergana Valley.
This Uzbek site linked to ancient cultures, such as the Eilatan culture (7th - 3rd centuries BCE) or the medieval period (5th - 8th centuries AD) features unique underground burial structures found at sites like Balandtepa, located in the southern part of the valley of the Syr Darya River in the Namangan Region of Uzbekistan.
Another operation was led at the ancient settlement of Mugtepa, a significant ancient archaeological site in Istaravshan, Tajikistan, known for its fortress ruins, and a recent discovery (2025) of a sophisticated 1.500 - year - old pipeline system, showcasing advanced ancient engineering with ceramic pipes and alabaster mortar.
Link
https://tvbrics.com/en/news/chinese-and-uzbek-researchers-launch-joint-archaeological-mission-in-fergana-valley/
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thanks a lot to read and note.