Archaeologists have confirmed the discovery of a medieval city submerged beneath the waters of Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan. This finding, located on the northwest shore of the lake, may significantly alter the historical understanding of the Silk Road. The city, believed to have thrived from the 10th to the 15th century, succumbed to a catastrophic earthquake that submerged most of its structures.
Legends of a lost city beneath Lake Issyk-Kul have circulated for decades. Recent explorations have validated these claims, revealing evidence of an organized urban settlement that points to a rich history of trade, culture, and religion. The underwater site, situated at a depth of just one to four meters, features large ceramic vessels, remnants of baked brick structures, and fragments of ornate architecture. These findings suggest the presence of significant public buildings such as madrasas, mosques, and possibly ritual baths, catering to traders, pilgrims, and travelers between China and the Islamic world.
Insights into Urban Life and Governance
The archaeological team has identified wooden structures and crumbling stone walls, indicating that the city was thoughtfully designed with a stable local governance system. Using techniques such as accelerator mass spectrometry (AMS) and dendrochronology, researchers have accurately dated various materials, providing a timeline for the settlement’s history.
According to researchers, the city likely served as a key urban center under the Kara-Khanid dynasty, a Turkic ruling house instrumental in introducing Islam to the region. Evidence of religious diversity was also uncovered, with remnants of Buddhism, Tengrianism, and Nestorian Christianity suggesting a tapestry of beliefs coexisting prior to the establishment of Islam.
Unearthing the Past
Archaeological evidence indicates that a significant earthquake in the 15th century caused part of the city to collapse, leading to its eventual submersion beneath Lake Issyk-Kul. Interestingly, the absence of human remains in some residential areas suggests that parts of the city may have been abandoned before this final disaster, preserving it much like the ancient city of Pompeii.
A large Muslim cemetery dating from the 13th and 14th centuries was also discovered, covering approximately 60,000 square meters. This cemetery adheres to Islamic burial customs, with graves oriented toward Mecca. So far, archaeologists have unearthed two skeletons—one male and one female—which may provide insights into the diet, health, and origins of the city’s inhabitants.
The presence of medieval ceramics and a large khum, a vessel for grain or water storage, indicates continued habitation in the area. Additional graves suggest that the region has been inhabited for centuries, reflecting multiple cultural eras.
Technological advancements are aiding researchers in mapping and preserving the underwater ruins. Utilizing underwater drones and sophisticated navigation systems, archaeologists aim to create a comprehensive interdisciplinary project that will integrate studies of funerary practices, urban archaeology, and the geological and climatic history of Issyk-Kul.
Experts believe that much of the city remains unexplored, and future research could further illuminate Central Asia’s pivotal role in world history during the Middle Ages. This discovery not only enriches the narrative of the Silk Road but also highlights the region’s complex cultural heritage, inviting further investigation and study.
