Lost Silk Road Cities Discovered High in the Mountains of Central Asia

Archaeologists have discovered two medieval cities, Tashbulak and Tugunbulak, high in the mountains of Central Asia, specifically in eastern Uzbekistan. The initial discovery of Tashbulak occurred in 2011, where researchers found burial sites and pottery shards, indicating human habitation in a challenging environment. Further exploration led to the identification of Tugunbulak, a nearly 300-acre site, using advanced lidar technology to map its extensive features, including a citadel and various structures. These cities, believed to have thrived between the 8th and 11th centuries, challenge the conventional understanding of Silk Road trade routes, which typically favored lowland areas. Evidence suggests that Tugunbulak was not merely a mining settlement but a significant urban center engaged in metallurgy and trade, as indicated by the presence of iron ore and coins from across Uzbekistan. The findings imply that these highland cities were integral to the Silk Road network, contributing to the broader economic and cultural exchanges of the time. Ongoing excavations aim to uncover more about the inhabitants and the cities' roles in the historical context of Central Asia.

- Two medieval cities, Tashbulak and Tugunbulak, have been discovered in eastern Uzbekistan.

- The cities thrived between the 8th and 11th centuries, challenging traditional views of Silk Road trade routes.

- Lidar technology was used to map Tugunbulak, revealing extensive urban features.

- The cities were involved in metallurgy and trade, indicating their significance in the Silk Road network.

- Ongoing research aims to uncover more about the inhabitants and the cities' historical context.