Скачать или смотреть GONUR DEPE: TURKMENISTAN'S LOST CITY

Gonur Depe, an ancient archaeological site in Turkmenistan’s Mary Province, offers a glimpse into the Bronze Age civilization of Margiana, dating back to 2300–1600 BCE.

Gonur Depe was discovered in the early 20th century and extensively excavated by archaeologist Viktor Sarianidi in the 1970s, Gonur Depe spans over 30 hectares and is recognized as the capital of the ancient Bactria-Margiana Archaeological Complex (BMAC).

The site features a fortified city with intricate mud-brick structures, elaborate palaces, temples, and residential quarters, showcasing an advanced urban design.

Excavations have revealed complex water management systems, workshops, and evidence of skilled artisanship, particularly in metallurgy, pottery, and stone carving.

This highly organised city was connected to a vast trade network, evident in artifacts such as jewellery, seals, and ceramics from Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, and the Iranian Plateau.

The religious artifacts suggest that the people of Gonur practiced a polytheistic religion with connections to Zoroastrianism.

On October 20, 2024, I journeyed 60 km across a sandy track through the Karakum Desert to reach Gonur Depe.