Nestled in the outskirts of Chimgan and Beldersay recreational areas, not far from Tashkent, lies a prehistoric treasure—the Beldersay petroglyphs. Sometimes referred to as the Kumbel petroglyphs, these ancient rock carvings are situated at an impressive altitude of 2450 meters (8000 feet), offering a remarkable glimpse into the lives and cultures of the ancient people who once inhabited what is now Uzbekistan.
The petroglyphs of Beldersay are part of a broader network of prehistoric monuments scattered across various regions of Uzbekistan. These rock carvings are found in places like Chimgan, Hodjikent, Bashkilzilsay, and several other mountainous areas. Among these, the most renowned collection is in the Sarmish-say canyon in the Nuratau mountains. While some petroglyphs are protected and studied under the aegis of organizations like UNESCO, others unfortunately face neglect and vandalism, with modern visitors sometimes carving their names and dates over the ancient artworks.
