Coaxing secrets out of an ancient desert sentinel

Sergey Borisovich Bolelov, senior research fellow at the State Museum of Oriental Art of Russia, highlighted that ancient city sites in Central Asian regions have demonstrated distinct architectural features, during an online seminar in May. Therefore, local archaeologists employ principles and techniques quite different from their Chinese peers.

He says it was fun to interact with these young, energetic colleagues and they would like to share what they know. During the excavation, he explained in detail their concepts and techniques and despite the language barrier, taught the students how to better identify and analyze pottery types in the region.

Vadim Vadimovich Yagodin, director of the archaeology department at the Karakalpak institute, notes that they've recognized the differences in cultural and archaeological traditions between China and the Central Asian regions. Despite these differences, they've identified common ground in practical work and cultivated a friendship and better understanding of each other through cooperation and shared experiences.

Chen Jingxin, assistant professor at the School of Art and Archaeology, Zhejiang University, says: "This archaeological expedition marks a significant step for Zhejiang University in Silk Road archaeology and an active effort in cultivating archaeological talent with an international perspective and advancing cross-cultural research."

He says the team plans to continue excavations over the next three to five years, combining fieldwork with advanced technologies to study site layouts, building methods, cultural relics, and environmental changes.