Sunken City Unearthed in Kyrgyzstan's Lake Issyk-Kul

Imagine diving into the depths of a lake and stumbling upon an ancient city. That's essentially what happened in Lake Issyk-Kul, Kyrgyzstan! Researchers recently explored the lake's depths and discovered the remains of a once-thriving settlement that sat along the famous Silk Road. It's like finding a lost chapter of history beneath the waves.

The team, comprised of researchers, found evidence of a medieval graveyard, bits of pottery, and the ruins of buildings. Valery Kolchenko, who was involved in the expedition, mentioned that the site was probably a bustling city along the Silk Road. This reminds me of stories I've read about forgotten civilizations, now brought back to light through dedicated exploration.

What's even more fascinating is that, according to Kolchenko, this city met its end due to a massive earthquake in the 15th century, sinking beneath the lake's surface. He even likened it to Pompeii, but in my opinion, this is more like Central Asia's own Atlantis – a place swallowed by the waters.

A Glimpse into the Past

The archaeologists investigated multiple areas within the lake. For example, they found brick buildings with a millstone, hinting at daily life and industry. They even discovered what might have been a social building, possibly a mosque, bathhouse, or even a madrasa. In another area, they located a Muslim necropolis dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. The skeletons were even positioned facing Mecca, which gives you a sense of the people's beliefs and culture.

It’s interesting to think that, at that time, the area was ruled by the Kara-Khanid State. Maksim Menshikov pointed out that the people there practiced different religions, from pagan Tengrianism to Buddhism and Nestorian Christianity. I think it's amazing how diverse cultures and beliefs can be, especially in a place like the Silk Road where different worlds collided.

In other locations, the team found older burials, medieval pottery, and even a large vessel buried deep in the lakebed. They couldn't recover the vessel just yet, but they're planning to return to investigate further. I can only imagine the stories that vessel could tell!

Underwater drilling was also conducted to hopefully learn more about the settlement's history. It is amazing to think that one day we can know more about the secrets it hides.