Ancient metal weapons found in Paykent considered oldest in Central Asia

Uzbekistan is home to many historical sites that conceal countless secrets. One of them is Poykent, located in the Karakul district. Medieval historians like Muhammad Narshakhi, Tabari, Ibn al-Khordadbeh, and Ibn al-Faqih described this site as “Madina al Tujjar” – “City of Merchants,“ “Copper City.“ It is acknowledged to be even older than Bukhara.
For 43 years, archaeologists from the Institute of Archaeology of the Uzbekistan Academy of Sciences and the Russian State Hermitageʼs Bukhara expedition have been researching the ruins of Paykent. Their efforts have led to the discovery of more than 2,200 artifacts, now housed in a local museum. The latest find includes an array of ancient metal weapons and tools.
— “Among the findings are daggers of various sizes, fragments of masks, arrowheads, pieces of soldier armor, specialized metal rings used in hand-to-hand combat, — says Dilmurod Kholov, a restorer at the Bukhara State Museum-Reserve. — They date back to the 1st century BC and 1st century AD. These unique items were discovered during archaeological excavations south of a temple from the Saka and Massagetae period. These items are considered the oldest collection of metal weapons ever found in Central Asia.“
The findings also include a ladle-like object thought to have been used for carrying fire, a circular object of unknown purpose, and a bell. The bell, intended for the temple, is made of metal on the outside, with a colored metal interior and a bone clapper. Presumably, it was meant for ceremonies inside the temple, as the bone clapper produces no resonant sound when rung. Another notable discovery is an incense burner resembling a kerosene lamp, which was an essential tool for Zoroastrians. Interestingly, the weapons and tools found in Paykent are depicted in Sogdian-era murals.
Currently, conservation and restoration work is being carried out. This process requires great skill, patience, time, and knowledge from specialists. Restoring artifacts that have been buried for centuries to their original state is a laborious and expensive task. Support from patriotic entrepreneurs could greatly assist restorers in this effort. Displaying these ancient and unique artifacts in museums would undoubtedly enhance touristsʼ interest in our country. It is worth mentioning that similar ancient weapons were discovered during archaeological excavations in Paykent in 2000, 2016, and 2017. The most recent discoveries, as archaeologists describe, represent a treasure trove in every sense.
Several years ago, reporters (editorial staff) from “Xalq sozi” witnessed the discovery of a metal workshop at this ancient site, an event documented in a dedicated article in our newspaper and website.
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