In the embrace of the Karzhantau mountains, the Karakiyasay gorge unfolds its rugged beauty, where a stream gently converges with the Chirchik river. Here, the gorge’s towering cliffs, which delve 50 meters deep, form a majestic canyon. Yet, it’s not solely the natural splendor that captivates visitors; it’s the ancient narratives etched into the rock faces—the petroglyphs—that offer a profound glimpse into the past.
The majority of these rock carvings grace the left bank of the river, a stone’s throw north of Gazalkent city. Scattered across the landscape, 90 stones bearing 1015 individual images and scenes have been discovered. These petroglyphs chronicle a diverse menagerie, from goats and wild rams to camels, horses, wolves, and bulls. Human life is also captured, with depictions of both mounted riders and those on foot.
The petroglyphs are categorized by their complexity. Simple scenes portray riders, archers, and men alongside camels, while more intricate carvings depict hunts, caravans, and dances. The caravan procession, featuring camels and a man, recurs four times, while compositions with horses showcase chariots and mounted figures, stirring the imagination.
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