News

KTMU Rector Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Ceylan visited the Ak-Beshim (Suyab) Ancient City excavation site located in the Chui Region, which stood out as an important political and cultural center during the period of the Western Turkic Khaganate along the Silk Road route, and received information about the ongoing archaeological work.

During the visit conducted within the scope of scientific engagements, the latest findings uncovered by the Kyrgyz-Japanese archaeological team were evaluated. It was noted that the remains believed to date back to the 7th–8th centuries, and thought to be associated with a Buddhist tradition, particularly the temple complex, provide significant data that may shed light on the cultural and religious history of Central Asia.

Ak-Beshim (Suyab) Excavations Contribute New Data to Central Asian History

As of May 2026, intensive excavation works at the Shakhristan-2 area have revealed brick-built stair structures, a ramp system, and platform remains. Archaeologists emphasize that the uncovered architectural elements present remarkable scientific evidence regarding the spread of Buddhist culture in the region and the structural organization of urban life.

According to the excavation team’s assessments, the new findings indicate that the ancient city of Suyab functioned not only as a commercial center but also as a strategic hub of interaction among different beliefs and cultures. The excavations contribute to making the multi-layered historical structure of Suyab - one of the key cities along the Silk Road, more visible and support the reassessment of the region’s cultural heritage within international academic circles.

Strengthening International Academic Cooperation

The Kyrgyz side of the excavation is led by Bakyt Amanbaeva, while the Japanese side is headed by Kazuya Yamauchi. The joint research conducted by Kyrgyz and Japanese scientists is also significant in strengthening international academic cooperation in Central Asian archaeology.

During his observations at the excavation site, Rector Alpaslan Ceylan emphasized that uncovering historical and cultural heritage through scientific methods is of great importance for preserving the collective memory of societies. Noting that universities are scientific institutions that research the past, document cultural heritage, and contribute to humanity’s shared history, Rector Ceylan stated that Manas University considers making the region’s historical heritage visible through international academic studies a strategic responsibility.

Suyab Holds an Important Place in the Collective Historical Memory of the Turkic World

Throughout history, Suyab Ancient City has been one of the crossroads of different civilizations and is recognized as an important political, commercial, and cultural center during the Western Turkic Khaganate period. The findings from recent excavations are expected to contribute to a better understanding of the region’s multicultural structure.