Altyn-Depe

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Altyn-Depe: The Ancient Marvel of the Bronze Age

Altyndepe

Altyn-Depe, also known as the «Golden Hill,» is a remarkable archaeological site dating back to the Bronze Age, specifically from around 3000 to 2000 B.C. Located in the ancient region of Abiver, this settlement is often compared to Stonehenge for its impressive and enigmatic features. The site is characterized by its scattered, shapeless hills surrounded by pise-walled remnants, varying in both size and height. These structures are linked by a coherent system that forms distinct inscriptions or patterns visible from above.

Alongside Altyn-Depe, other significant settlements such as Namazga-Depe and Ulug-Depe emerged around 3000 B.C. and reached their zenith by 2000 B.C., becoming major centers of early Central Asian civilization. These sites were fortified with mud brick walls and gates, reinforced by robust towers. The size of these settlements suggests they could each accommodate between 11,000 and 12,000 people. Multi-room houses constructed from mud bricks were arranged in extensive quarters, with narrow, winding streets dividing the areas. The heart of Altyn-Depe featured a grand temple, highlighted by a four-tiered tower approximately 12 meters high, topped with a sacrificial altar.

  • Altyndepe

The architecture of the Altyn-Depe temple bears similarities to that of Babylon and Sumer. Like many Mesopotamian temples, it was dedicated to the Moon god. This vast complex also included various storerooms, the residence of the Supreme Priest, and a tomb for the priestly community. These features indicate that Altyn-Depe’s civilization was closely connected with the major cultural centers of the ancient Orient.

The remains of the artisan quarters at Altyn-Depe stretch across extensive areas, with the ruins of large pottery forges marking the site where pottery workshops once thrived. The craftsmanship of Altyn-Depe’s artisans was highly skilled, producing exquisite daggers with intricate engravings, as well as vessels, mirrors, pins, rings, and bracelets. Excavations in the «nobility district» have uncovered a wealth of jewelry, including gold and silver ornaments, semi-precious stone necklaces, and bronze and silver rings and signets.

A significant portion of the Altyn-Depe and Namazga-Depe populations were engaged in agriculture, utilizing a simple system of canals for irrigation. Additionally, the inhabitants of Altyn-Depe employed wheel transport, reflecting their advanced technological capabilities.

Ashgabat

Ashgabat city tour

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Explore UNESCO-listed Old Nisa
Visit Spiritual Mosque, Central Asia’s largest
Discover history at National Museum
Visit Akhalteke horse stables
View Lenin Monument and surroundings

Explore Ashgabat, Turkmenistan's capital, on this immersive 6-hour tour. Visit ancient sites like Old Nisa, marvel at modern marvels such as the Spiritual Mosque, and discover the city's rich history and culture at the National Museum of History.
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