Shafaqna English – Scientists from the Samarkand Institute of Archaeology have discovered the remains of a city more than two thousand years old in the Qashqadarya region of Uzbekistan.
According to Shafaqna, Uzbekistan’s UzA news agency reported that this ancient site was discovered on the Baburtapa mound located in the village of Basttol in the Kamashin district.
According to a statement issued by the Institute “Researchers from the Samarkand Institute of Archaeology recently discovered another ancient site on a mound in the village of Basttol, Kamashin district, which contains the remains of a fortified city dating from the period between the 3rd century BCE and the 3rd century CE.”
Sanjar Abdulrahimov, a researcher at the Institute, stated that defensive walls, guard rooms, pottery workshops, jars, and many ceramic items were uncovered—evidence that life in this city continued for a long period. It is also believed that the main palace or temple was located at the center of the city. Remains of a large hall, several rooms, and parts of wall paintings were also discovered.
He added: “Clay statues, jars, and vessels have been crafted with remarkable precision. Among the findings are prominent sculptures from the Seleucid period and the Kushan era. It was later determined that pottery and stone-carving arts were widespread in this area.”
According to the researchers, in 2025 alone archaeological investigations in the Qashqadarya oasis uncovered more than 100 new ancient sites, bringing the total number to more than 1,500.
The researchers noted that the discoveries are in good condition and allow for a phased historical study of these sites. They also pointed out that urban culture in this region emerged in the 9th–8th centuries BCE, and during the Middle Ages, around 30 major cities existed in this area, as the Qashqadarya oasis lay along the route of caravans connecting Bukhara and Khwarazm.