A collaborative archaeological team from China and Uzbekistan has uncovered the remains of a significant structure at the famous Mingchaqtepa site in Uzbekistan.
The discovery offers new insights into cultural interactions between East and West along the ancient Silk Road. Central to the structure is a circular fire pit, with evidence of fire and smoke damage on the floors and walls. Additionally, numerous fragments of overturned pottery found outside the building have led archaeologists to identify the site as a “Zoroastrian temple.”
This finding underscores the historical importance of Mingchaqtepa as a crucial point on the Silk Road and provides a deeper understanding of Zoroastrian ceremonies in the region.
According to Reuters, the remains of the ancient structure at the Mingtepa site were fully uncovered on Sunday, December 23, 2024, after nearly three months of excavation and clearing. The building, with a nearly square design and sides measuring around eight meters, has mudbrick walls 1.2 meters thick, enclosing an internal area of over 40 square meters.
Located in the Fergana Valley along the northern bank of the Syr Darya River, the Mingtepa site is known as a “living fossil of the Silk Road” and was once a vital location along the ancient trade route.
Liu Tao, an archaeologist from the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) and leader of the joint Chinese Uzbek excavation team, stated that they also discovered seven graves, two additional structures, and a valuable collection of artifacts, including pieces of silk, leather products, bronze mirrors, square coins, and beads.
Experts highlight that Zoroastrianism, founded by the Iranians in the 17th century BCE, gradually spread eastward into Central Asia. Prior to the rise of Buddhism and Christianity, it was considered the most widespread religion across Eurasia.
