Archaeologists Uncover Ancient Uyghur City in Mongolia

Turkish and Mongolian researchers have unearthed the ruins of Togu Balik, an ancient city believed to have been built by Uyghurs around 1,400 years ago in northern Mongolia, RFA reported yesterday. The excavation, conducted in June and July 2024 in the Tuul River Valley, sheds new light on Uyghur civilization amidst ongoing debates over their historical narrative, particularly in the context of China’s attempts to reshape Uyghur identity.

Lead archaeologist Saban Dogan from Izmir Katip Calabi University stated, “This discovery fills a historical gap,” enhancing understanding of Turkic urban life. The city, constructed between 630 and 680 CE, is linked to the Toquz Oghuz confederation, a key group in the Uyghur Khaganate, which existed from 740 to 840 CE.

The findings challenge recent claims by Chinese historians suggesting that Uyghurs are not Turkic and migrated to Xinjiang only in the 9th century. Experts argue that Uyghurs have inhabited the region of East Turkistan for millennia, with historical documents supporting their longstanding presence.

The excavation team, supported by Turkey’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism, aims to uncover more about ancient Turkic lifestyles, including religious beliefs and urban culture. As the debate over Uyghur history intensifies, Togu Balik stands as a testament to the rich heritage of this civilization.