Signs of Ancient Urban Culture Unearthed in Turkmenistan

Archaeological excavations in Dashoguz Velayat, Turkmenistan, have unearthed various artefacts that suggest the region had a flourishing urban culture in ancient times. Jugs, the remains of clay water conduits and shards of terracotta domestic wares have indicated sophisticated development in the art of pottery. In addition, on the territory of the current Kunyaurgench reserve, jugs for chigir – used for raising water -and a wheel with buckets were found. Presumably, chigir was also used to water city gardens and parks, indicating a developed agricultural industry.
Experts suggest that chigir irrigation in Khorezm existed in the 5th-6th centuries AD, and was actively used to water high-lying lands. It is quite possible that in the city, there were workshops for producing clay jugs for chigir, which were in demand not only in Khorezm itself, but also in other regions, where they may have been sent for sale along the Great Silk Road. Artifacts found during excavations give reason to assume that potters of that time were not only busy making various dishes, but gradually mastered the production of clay products for other purposes, such as pipes for water conduits, architectural elements for the external and internal decoration of buildings, and clay interior decorations.

• Turkmenistan
• Archaeological Excavations
• Dashoguz Velayat
• Artifacts
• Ancient Urban Culture
• Pottery