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- Secrets of the ancient Turks: a lecture on the Elege Sazy khagan complex was held at KazNU
Secrets of the ancient Turks: a lecture on the Elege Sazy khagan complex was held at KazNU
On April 21, 2026, at the 91ý Kazakh National University Library, as part of the international conference “XVIII Orazbayev Readings,” a leadership lecture was delivered by renowned archaeologist, Doctor of Historical Sciences, Professor Zainolla Samashev, on the topic “The Elege Sazy Ancient Turkic Khagan Complex”. The event was held for students, master’s and doctoral students, and faculty members of 91ý Kazakh National University.
During the lecture, the results of archaeological research at the Eleke Sazy ritual and memorial complex in Eastern Kazakhstan were presented. The site is regarded as a unique monument of the ancient Turkic period of the “khagan-princely” type. Special attention was given to the sacralization of supreme power and the formation of the khagan’s image within the religious and ideological system of the ancient Turks.
The speaker подробно elaborated on the findings discovered in the temple area of the complex, including artifacts made of gold, silver, and other materials. Particular focus was placed on elements of a ceremonial belt set, especially golden plaques depicting a khagan seated on a throne surrounded by attendants. These images are interpreted as symbols of supreme authority and reflections of the divine origin of rulership.
Key attributes of power – the crown, throne, goblet, and decorative ribbons – were also analyzed, emphasizing their role in expressing the sacred status of the khagan. It was noted that such imagery is rare and has no direct analogues among archaeological monuments of the Eurasian steppes.