Aigine CRC team hosted an inspiring meeting with archaeologist and Candidate of Historical Sciences Dr. Kadicha Tashbayeva.
The discussion focused on opportunities for future collaboration, particularly within the framework of the Central Asian Petroglyphs Database, which seeks to integrate not only archaeological but also ethnographic perspectives.
Saimaluu-Tash: A Sacred Space
A special part of the conversation was devoted to the Saimaluu-Tash petroglyph complex. According to Dr. Tashbayeva, Saimaluu-Tash is not just an archaeological site but also a sacred space, whose meaning unfolds gradually through time and inner reflection.
Key insights from Dr. Tashbayeva:
- Unlike many other petroglyph complexes, Saimaluu-Tash has almost no overlapping images.
- She suggested that priests may have safeguarded the sanctity and order of the site.
- She described Saimaluu-Tash as “an epic narrative before the age of writing”, drawing parallels with the Rigveda and Avesta, which also mention chariots and solar-headed figures similar to those found on Saimaluu-Tash stones.
We are grateful for Dr. Tashbayeva’s profound reflections.