Archaeological Research of the Medieval Caravanserai “Taskeshu”
In accordance with the 2024 annual work plan of the Atyrau Regional Museum of History and Local Lore, archaeological research was carried out at the medieval caravanserai “Taskeshu” located in the Makat District. General supervision of the project was carried out by the Museum Director, M. Kipiev, M.A. The scientific director of the expedition was Candidate of Historical Sciences, Senior Researcher of the “Archaeological Research” Department of the Museum, Marat Seitzhanuly Kasenov. The team was led by Senior Researcher of the same department, M. Abdigaliyev, M.A.
The purpose of the excavations was to clarify the stratigraphic condition of the still-uncovered part of the caravanserai, to completely expose the historical site, and to study its structure. Object of Study: Historical and cultural monument of local significance — the Taskeshu Caravanserai. Dating: 14th century, Middle Ages. Research on the monument was carried out in accordance with the task of systematically studying the history of the Golden Horde and developing scientific and informational activities in this area, as well as based on the approved plan of the Committee of Culture of the Ministry of Culture and Information of the Republic of Kazakhstan. The total area of the uncovered cultural layer amounted to 800 sq. m.
Results:
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As a result of the 2024 fieldwork, the historical site was fully uncovered and studied.
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During the archaeological excavations on an area of 800 sq. m, the foundations of four watchtowers, the outer wall, and the gate of the caravanserai were identified. Twelve rooms were discovered, and the storerooms along the northern side were fully exposed. In addition, two additional storerooms built along the northern wall were uncovered and cleared.
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Cultural layers dating to the Golden Horde period were revealed at the site. Among the finds were numerous fragments of ceramic vessels, animal bones, and metal objects. The ceramics include vessels with slip painting, as well as relief and plain fragments.
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One silver and one copper coin from the Golden Horde period were discovered. They have not yet undergone conservation. A fragment of brick with a black coating was also found during the excavations.