Gonur-Tepe

Architecture of Gonur Tepe

Gonur Tepe served as the capital temple city of Margush, and archaeological findings have provided substantial evidence of spiritual rituals and traditions, indicating that the inhabitants of Gonur Tepe practiced Zoroastrianism.

At the heart of the city stood a palace, characterized by its many large rooms, thick, robust walls, and square towers, likely the residence of the chief priest. Surrounding the palace were temple structures on all four sides, interconnected by a single wall. The corners of this wall were reinforced with square towers, though smaller than those of the palace’s exterior walls.

Beyond these walls, to the south, lay a large swimming pool measuring 180 by 80 meters and 2 meters deep. To the north and west of the temple complex were two smaller pools. These structures were enclosed by another medium-sized, narrow wall, supported by pilasters on the inner side. Archaeologists believe this wall symbolically separated the sacred site from the outside world, rather than serving a defensive purpose.

Remnants of the façade of these buildings revealed that they were adorned with stone mosaics, a decorative technique unique to Gonur Tepe. The process involved first painting the image on the wall before applying the stones, a method not found elsewhere in the world. Additionally, the discovery of numerous pottery fragments throughout Gonur Tepe suggests that earthenware production was a significant activity.

Finds in Gonur Tepe

One of the most fascinating discoveries at Gonur Tepe was an underground burial complex located in the eastern part of the large pool. This area appeared to be the final resting place of the local elite. Archaeologists unearthed five tombs, each resembling a house with multiple rooms. Two of these tombs contained multiple burials, likely the remains of servants who were traditionally buried alongside their masters to accompany them into the afterlife. These burial sites were filled with valuable items that once belonged to the deceased.

Although the underground vaults had been looted during the city’s habitation, archaeologists still managed to recover a few silver and gold vessels and pieces of jewelry. They also uncovered more fragments of mosaic compositions within the tombs, which likely once decorated the shrines but had deteriorated over time. Large boxes, thought to have once held offerings to the spirits, were also found in the tombs.

In addition to the burials, a foundation pit measuring 2.5 meters deep and 5 meters in diameter was discovered near the tombs. Remarkably, this pit had not been looted, and archaeologists unearthed many intriguing artifacts and the remains of ancient people and animals within it.

At the center of the pit lay a chariot, which seemed to have been deliberately placed there. According to the legends of the time, such a chariot was essential for the deceased’s journey to the afterlife. Surrounding the chariot were the remains of seven people, seven dogs, two donkeys, and two camels, all of which appeared to have been sacrificed. The number seven, representing both the seven people and seven dogs, was no coincidence, as both ancient Zoroastrians and modern Turkmens consider it a sacred number. To this day, the descendants of the ancient Gonurians hold a curious reverence and fear towards dogs.

Among the smaller items found were a bronze lamp, two stone sticks with silver rings at their ends, a scoop, three bronze objects, a unique vessel nearly one meter tall consisting of seven spherical cisterns, and a wide, round-bottomed vessel.

Besides the large foundation pit, smaller burial sites and other unusual artifacts were also found, which have left scientists puzzled. For example, in one of the tombs, smooth, ball-shaped stones were discovered alongside ceramic dishes, as well as stones shaped like pistachios. The purpose and significance of these items remain unknown.

The necropolis of Gonur Tepe continues to be a source of mystery for historians, archaeologists, and scientists. Today, it stands as one of Turkmenistan’s most significant tourist attractions, drawing thousands of visitors each year. Explore this extraordinary and enigmatic site to connect with the secrets of the Turkmen ancestors, who were skilled sculptors, builders, and jewelers of the ancient world.