In a remarkable archaeological discovery, a massive Bronze Age pyramid has been unearthed in the Abai region of Kazakhstan, shedding light on a fascinating chapter in human history. This hexagonal structure, which dates back to the 2nd millennium BC, has baffled researchers with its intricate design and potential ties to an ancient horse-centered culture.
Unveiling the Enigmatic Pyramid
Archaeologists and students from the L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University have been meticulously excavating this enigmatic pyramid since 2014. Dr. Ulan Umitkaliyev, Head of the University's Archaeology and Ethnology Department, expressed astonishment at the complexity of the structure. "This is a very complex construction," he stated. "The steppe pyramid was built with great precision; it is hexagonal, with thirteen meters and eight rows of stones between each face. It is a very sophisticated, complex structure with several circles in the middle."
The pyramid's hexagonal shape is unlike anything found in the Eurasian steppes before, making it a unique archaeological find. Each face of the pyramid spans roughly 42 feet, indicating the meticulous craftsmanship that went into its construction.
Each face of the hexagonal pyramid spans roughly 42 feet.EURASIAN NATIONAL UNIVERSITY
The Era of Bronze and the Horse Connection
The Bronze Age, which spanned from 3300 BC to 1200 BC, marked a significant period in human history characterized by the widespread use of bronze for tools and weapons. During this epoch, the Eurasian steppe played a central role as a hub for trade, cultural exchange, and the movement of people. It was during this time that humans in Kazakhstan began the domestication of horses, a pivotal development that transformed ancient societies.
Images adorning the pyramid's walls provide compelling evidence of the close relationship between the structure and the horse culture of its time. Dr. Umitkaliyev notes, "Images of various animals, especially horses, predominate on the walls outside the building in the same complex. There are also images of a camel." The domestication of horses during the Bronze Age revolutionized human travel, facilitating the exchange of languages, ideas, and goods along the famous Silk Road, which connected Eastern Europe to Asia and beyond.
A Center of Ancient Culture
The treasures discovered at the site further attest to its importance during ancient times. Excavations have revealed ceramics, female gold earrings, and other jewelry, suggesting that this Bronze Age pyramid was a cultural epicenter. "Findings in excavations...indicate that this Bronze Age was the center of culture in ancient times," explained Dr. Umitkaliyev. "This means that even at that time, the cult of the horse was extremely high, as evidenced by the discovery of horse bones around the stone building."
The Ongoing Exploration
Excavation efforts at this remarkable site will continue with the collaboration of students from the university and researchers from international institutions. As the layers of history are peeled back, more insights into the significance of this Bronze Age pyramid and its connection to the ancient horse culture may come to light.
The discovery of this hexagonal pyramid in Kazakhstan adds a fascinating chapter to our understanding of ancient civilizations, trade networks, and the pivotal role that horse domestication played in shaping human history during the Bronze Age. As research continues, the mysteries of this unique structure may reveal even more about the cultural landscape of ancient Eurasia.
