Semi-fortified Palatial Complexes in Central Asia: New Work at the Great Kyz Kala, Merv, Turkmenistan

Authors
Williams, Tim 
Jorayev, Gaygysyz 
Wordsworth, Paul 
Jepbarov, Rejep 

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Article
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Abstract

jats:pWithin Central Asia there is an unusual group of earthen buildings (köshks), usually constructed on raised platforms, with vertical engaged columns forming iconic ‘corrugations’ on the exterior walls. The complexes are semi-fortified, with a second storey entrance, and often with asymmetrical ranges of rooms around an internal courtyard. Little systematic archaeological work has taken place on these monuments, which have mainly been studied as relatively eroded standing structures. However, recent work at the Great Kyz Kala at Merv, Turkmenistan, the largest surviving monumental köshk in Central Asia, has provided more details of construction and use. The excavations suggest that this complex was constructed in the 8jats:supth</jats:sup>/9jats:supth</jats:sup> century CE, with well-appointed rooms on the second storey, including a large hall, and functional rooms and storage spaces around a courtyard on the lower floor. The complex was set within an enclosure, containing gardens and possibly ancillary buildings. This particular köshk may have acted as an elite palatial suburban residence, perhaps for the governor of Merv.</jats:p>

Publication Date
2018
Online Publication Date
2018-12-05
Acceptance Date
2018-10-01
Keywords
4301 Archaeology, 4303 Historical Studies, 43 History, Heritage and Archaeology
Journal Title
ARCHAEOLOGY INTERNATIONAL
Journal ISSN
1463-1725
2048-4194
Volume Title
21
Publisher
UCL Press
Sponsorship
Ambassador's Fund for Cultural Preservation