Researchers have discovered two long-lost medieval cities in Uzbekistan that were once thriving centers along the Silk Road, using drone technology. The cities, Tashbulak and Tugunbulak, were hidden beneath the mountains of Central Asia and were found to be bustling urban centers despite their isolation and elevation. The use of LiDAR technology revealed detailed structures such as watchtowers, fortresses, and plazas in the cities, challenging previous assumptions about the Silk Road network.
Led by Michael Frachetti, the team began archaeological work at Tashbulak in 2011 and Tugunbulak in 2018, uncovering evidence of metal production and trade in the region. The cities declined in the early 11th century, possibly due to political division and overexploitation of nearby forest resources. The discovery of these cities at high elevations provides a new understanding of the complex urban landscape of the Silk Road, previously thought to avoid mountainous regions.
Tim Williams, an expert in Silk Road archaeology, praised the research for enhancing our understanding of ancient landscapes and human adaptation. Frachetti believes these cities were home to diverse communities engaged in activities such as trade, craftsmanship, and metal production. Ongoing excavations at the sites aim to uncover more information about the causes of the cities’ decline.
Overall, the discovery of Tashbulak and Tugunbulak sheds light on the rich history of Silk Road trade and urban development in Central Asia. Through the use of drone technology, archaeologists have been able to uncover detailed structures and gain new insights into the economic and social activities of these ancient cities.
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