Uniting History: Kazakhstan Renovates Sacred Sites Across Three Regions of Its Heritage
The restoration of significant historical sites in Kazakhstan is progressing, with the Aktobe-Laeti archaeological site, Igilik Bi mausoleum, and Ablaikit temple complex all undergoing restoration efforts. These projects hold considerable cultural, historical, and tourism value.
The Aktobe-Laeti archaeological site, situated in the Atyrau Region, has been undergoing excavation and restoration since 2017, with plans to transform it into an open-air museum [1]. This site, dating back to the Golden Horde era, was a major center of craftsmanship and economic development. The discovery of artifacts such as ceramic vessels, glass bracelets, beaded rings, and a 14th-century gold coin showcase the advanced craftsmanship of the nomadic and Sarmatian civilizations [1].
The Igilik Bi mausoleum, located in the Karagandy Region, was built between 1875 and 1880 and designated a monument of national historical and architectural significance in 2000. Igilik Bi, a respected 19th-century figure in the Kareke-Altai rural district, made significant contributions to education, coal mining, and public welfare for the Kazakh people [2]. The restoration of this mausoleum aims to preserve its original architectural character and ensure long-term structural stability.
The Ablaikit temple complex, located in the Ulan District of East Kazakhstan, is one of the few remaining sites of the Dzungar civilization. The restoration project, prepared with the participation of well-known researcher Boris Shcherbakov, aims to restore key architectural elements, landscape the surrounding area, and build a road from the first of the Sibin lakes to improve accessibility [3]. The focus of the Ablaikit temple complex restoration project is on developing tourism infrastructure while preserving the site's historical integrity.
Organized tours may be introduced at these sites in the future, giving an extra boost to the development of cultural tourism in the region. This development is expected to provide economic incentives to maintain and promote Kazakhstan’s historical landmarks [1]. The Ablaikit temple complex, in particular, is attracting foreign visitors, particularly tourists from China.
The Aktobe-Laeti site may have been damaged in the 14th century due to a rise in the Caspian Sea's water level and in the 1950s by road construction and livestock grazing. Archaeological excavations at the site began in 1965 and resumed in 2017 [1]. The Golden Horde-era settlement at Aktobe-Laeti played a significant role in the development of the economy, culture, and ancient civilization of Kazakhstan. The first mention of the site was in an 1861 report by Staff Captain A. Alekseev [1].
These restoration efforts reinforce Kazakhstan’s cultural identity, enrich its national history, and expand heritage tourism, ensuring that the legacy of ancient civilizations is both preserved and actively integrated into contemporary societal values [1]. The projects also serve to connect modern Kazakhs with their heritage and historical achievements.
- In the future, the open-air museum at the Aktobe-Laeti archaeological site could feature fashion-and-beauty and lifestyle exhibits, showcasing the advanced craftsmanship of the nomadic and Sarmatian civilizations, as seen in the discovered artifacts like ceramic vessels, glass bracelets, beaded rings, and a 14th-century gold coin.
- Upon completion of the restoration, the Igilik Bi mausoleum, a testament to the contributions of 19th-century figure Igilik Bi to education and public welfare for the Kazakh people, could serve as an inspiration for education-and-self-development and relationships tours, providing insights into the historical significance of the site and its multifaceted impact.
- The Ablaikit temple complex, attracting foreign tourists, particularly from China, could offer food-and-drink experiences highlighting local and traditional cuisines, immersing visitors in the cultural celebration of Kazakhstan's rich history, as well as providing a setting for sports activities in the beautiful restoration of the Dzungar civilization site.
- The development of tourism infrastructure around the historical restoration projects, such as the Ablaikit temple complex, could offer travel opportunities for exploring Kazakhstan's diverse landscape, including home-and-garden visits, weather-focused experiences to learn about the climatic conditions that influenced the historical sites, and even sports adventures in the nearby natural surroundings.
