Lost Golden Horde capital Sarai Jük reveals 20 new medieval sites in Kazakhstan

Sarai Jük, once a thriving capital of the Golden Horde, has emerged as a focal point of archaeological and historical research in Kazakhstan. Recent excavations have uncovered 20 new sites from this medieval era, revealing the city’s significance as a major trade and cultural centre along the Great Silk Road. The ancient settlement of Sarai Jük flourished during the Golden Horde and Nogai-Kazakh periods, growing rapidly into a key urban hub. Its position at the crossroads of trade routes made it a vital link between the sedentary civilisations of the East and the nomadic cultures of the Eurasian steppes. Beyond commerce, the city also served as an administrative powerhouse under the Golden Horde.

Archaeologists have conducted extensive work across 13 excavation sites, unearthing a wealth of artefacts. Among the discoveries are ceramic fragments, metal and glass objects, bone tools, and nearly 400 coins. These finds provide tangible evidence of the city’s bustling economy and diverse cultural exchanges. The excavations have also exposed burial vaults and funerary complexes, offering new insights into medieval burial customs. These structures highlight the religious and social practices of Sarai Jük’s inhabitants, enriching understanding of their daily lives and traditions. The Sarai Jük State Historical and Cultural Museum-Reserve has led three major research projects to document the city’s past. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has emphasised its importance to Kazakhstan, describing it as a cornerstone of the nation’s heritage. The ongoing work continues to shed light on its role as both a commercial and political centre.

The discoveries at Sarai Jük confirm its historical weight as a dynamic crossroads of trade, culture, and governance. With 20 new Golden Horde-era monuments identified, the findings deepen knowledge of medieval Eurasian connections. Further research will likely reveal even more about this once-great city.