Kurgancha-Kala

Kurgancha-Kala, also known as Davlet-girey, measures 40 by 40 meters and is oriented according to the cardinal directions. The fortress is notably higher and more fortified on its western side, providing a defensive advantage. The eastern wall housed rooms, where excavations have uncovered artifacts such as beads made of blue glass and shells, indicating a once-thriving settlement. The fortress was constructed using cut limestone slabs sourced from the plateau itself, showcasing the ingenuity and resourcefulness of its builders.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, local residents began referring to the fortress as Davlet-girey. This name is linked to Prince Alexander Bekovich-Cherkassky, a Russian army leader who crossed the Ustyurt Plateau in 1717. Despite his army traveling much further south, the local Karakalpak people believed that the Russians were responsible for building the fortress on the plateau’s ledges. This mix-up adds a layer of intrigue to Kurgancha-Kala’s history, blending fact with local folklore.

Interestingly, there is another fortress named Kurgancha-Kala located about 250 kilometers southeast near the settlement of Takhtakupyr. This older fortress dates back to the 7th-8th centuries, but only mounds remain to mark its walls, distinguishing it from the better-preserved structure on the Ustyurt Plateau.

Today, Kurgancha-Kala is a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and adventurous travelers. The site is accessible via a journey of approximately 150 kilometers northwest from Muynak, often included in tours to the Aral Sea. Nearby, a yurt camp provides accommodations for visitors, offering a unique experience of staying close to the historical site. From the camp, the fortress is just a short jeep ride away or a half-hour walk, making it easily accessible for exploration.

On a higher ledge near the fortress stands a pyramid constructed from the same limestone slabs, which likely served as a watchtower or beacon. This structure adds to the historical and architectural significance of the site, providing further evidence of its strategic importance in ancient times.