Archaeologists have uncovered prehistoric rock paintings and the remains of a Bronze Age settlement in Uzbekistan’s Nurata mountain range, offering new insights into the region’s ancient inhabitants.
The discoveries were made during archaeological surveys in October 2026 in the mountainous and foothill areas of Kushrabat district, Samarkand region.
Researchers A. Kholmatov and T. Ruziboev from the Ya. Gulyamov Samarkand Archaeological Institute identified rock paintings created using natural ochre on the walls and ceilings of several rock shelters.
The paintings, found in the Egrijarsoy, Khodjasoy (Badimin), Galajinsoy and Sumbulsoy areas, are believed to date to the Mesolithic and Neolithic periods, although further research is needed to confirm their age.
Meanwhile, surveys in the Pangat area uncovered Bronze Age pottery fragments at three locations.
At a site approximately 700–800 metres east of Kumolokli village, archaeologists excavated a small exploratory trench measuring two metres by one metre. The excavation revealed a Bronze Age settlement containing a 60-centimetre-thick archaeological layer, along with numerous pottery fragments and animal bone remains.
Researchers believe the discoveries could provide valuable evidence about early human settlement in the Nurata Mountains and the development of cultural connections between ancient communities across the region.
Further large-scale excavations have been recommended to investigate the newly identified sites, particularly the Bronze Age settlement.
Sources : Agency for Cultural Heritage of Republic of Uzbekistan
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