The archaeologists of Akmola region made another discovery. They found unique artifacts at the ancient settlement of the Botai culture near Krasny Yar village. Arrowheads and spears, darts and axes, needles and more were among the tools found. However, the most significant founds were a bone knife, a harpoon and an ornamented horse phalanx. The findings number amounted to approximately 500 items. According to experts, the artifacts are well preserved. They are a vivid example of the development of various crafts at that period.
“This time we have found a bone knife during the excavations. Such a household item was found in the Botai settlements for the first time, there was no such finding in 40 years. Judging by the knife, the master carefully processed and sharpened it on both sides. In addition, a harpoon was found near Krasny Yar village. Similar object was found 20 years ago, in the 2000s. This is another proof that the Botai people were engaged in fishing,” said Ruslan Khairgeldinov, inspector at the Botai State Historical and Cultural Museum-Reserve.
According to archaeologists, the discovered artifacts shed light on the life and culture of the people of the ancient Botai settlements. The scientific research will continue, because the Botai culture is still a promising field of research for many scientists worldwide.
“We should probably call it Botai civilization instead of Botai culture. The word civilization means they produced something new. We’ve heard of Egypt, the Tigris and the Euphrates, Sumer and Akkad, Babylon. And the list goes on. Botai can also be listed as a civilization along with them,” noted Kuanysh Shakshakov, Director of the Botai State Historical and Cultural Museum-Reserve.
At the end of the excavations, all detected artifacts will be subject to being numbered, described and dated. Finally, they will be given up for further research.
