Historic journey: Türkiye-Mongolia excavations begin at Shovh Uul’s Great Cemetery

Significant findings have emerged during the excavation at Shovh Uul Mountain, Mongolia.

The “Atlilar Kulturu-2024” (“Cavalry’s Culture”) project, a collaboration between the Mongolia University of Culture and Arts and Istanbul University, is extensively exploring the history and cultural heritage of nomadic societies.

“The ‘Atlilar Kulturu-2024′ project, which we started to focus on nomads’ history and cultural heritage, is being implemented for the first time this year. Our project has a three-year duration, and this year marks the beginning of that journey,” Project leader professor Kursat Yildirim stated.

Yildirim emphasized the excavation’s historical importance, noting: “The data we obtain from the kurgan we are excavating holds great significance for our history.”

Excavation work, findings

The project involves archaeological excavations at medieval nomadic burial and monument sites in the Shovh Uul Mountain and Tuul River basin in Tuv Province, Mongolia. Prof. Yildirim noted that the work began in 2019 but was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Regarding the findings, Yildirim revealed that the burial site dates back to the 5th and 8th centuries and may belong to the Juanjuan, Gokturk or Uighur periods.

“This burial site stands out because of its square plan and a sacrificial area consistent with ancient Turkish traditions.

He added that measuring 10×10 meters reflects the Turkish view of dominance over the four cardinal directions during that period,” he added.

Previous excavations, future plans

Yildirim mentioned that they were smaller while square tombs were found in Mongolia before.

“This tomb is notable for its large size and unique structure. It stands alone as a monument with no surrounding small kurgans,” he said.

He also noted that the internal structure of the tomb will be thoroughly examined, and the findings will undergo radiocarbon analysis.

Yildirim highlighted that the excavation’s results could impact Turkish history, emphasizing the historical significance of the Tula River region based on information from Chinese sources.

Excavation report, collaborations

The excavation will result in a report published in Turkish and Mongolian. The project includes Professor Kursat Yildirim and his team from Istanbul University, Olziibayar Sodnom from Mongolia University of Culture and Arts and B. Ochir from the Mongolia Academy of Sciences.

Contributions also come from Assoc. professor Elvin Yildirim of Istanbul Aydin University and researcher Seyma Sapma.

This significant project aims to enhance the understanding of nomadic history and cultural heritage, and it represents an important step in preserving this heritage through Turkish-Mongolian collaboration.