Tamgaly, Archaeological site in Almaty region, Kazakhstan
Tamgaly is an archaeological site containing numerous rock carvings spread across multiple stone formations in a mountainous landscape of central Kazakhstan. The petroglyphs are located at different spots and require visiting several exposed rock surfaces to see the full collection.
The rock carvings date from the middle Bronze Age through the Iron Age and document several thousand years of human presence in this region. The site was discovered in 1957 by archaeologist A.G. Maksimova and later protected as a heritage reserve.
The rock panels show depictions of sun gods, warriors performing ritual movements, and hunting scenes that reveal what ancient peoples believed and valued.
The site is best reached through guided tours from Almaty, where specialists explain the significance of different petroglyph groups. The terrain is hilly and requires sturdy footwear and preparation for changing weather conditions.
The reserve protects rare plant species listed in Kazakhstan's Red Book, including Tulipa regelii that grows only on these rocky slopes. These flowers bloom at specific times and show how the natural variety connects with the archaeological richness of the site.
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