Idea #620 – Visiting one of the first Central Asian cities in Sarazm, Tajikistan
Sarazm, which means “the beginning of the earth”, is an archaeological site that testifies to sedentary human settlements in Central Asia from the fourth millennium BC to the end of the third millennium BC. the rise of early proto-urbanism in this region. This center, among the oldest in Central Asia, is located between a mountainous area suitable for livestock breeding by nomadic shepherds and a large valley favorable to the development of agriculture and irrigation by the former. sedentary populations in the region. The early rise of proto-urbanism in this region is illustrated by the sophistication of dwellings, infrastructure and archaeological furniture.
Its original purpose is based on the complementarity of pastoralism and emerging agriculture, then the exploitation of mineral resources in the Bronze Age and the development of handicrafts. Sarazm also demonstrates the existence of material and cultural exchanges and trade links between the steppes of Central Asia, Turkmenistan, the Iranian plateau, the Indus Valley and the Indian Ocean. The site is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Some Pictures
Where is it ?
Sarazm, Tadjikistan