The structure was reportedly excavated in the 1950s and 1960s, but archaeologists were unable to determine what the purpose of the intricate structure was. Irina Arzhantseva of the Russian Academy of Sciences has begun her own expedition, and is determined to get to the bottom of the ancient mystery.
The Archaeological Institute has some background on what is known about the site so far:
The few artifacts unearthed at the site seem to date it to the mid-eighth century A.D. During this period, Por-Bajin was on the periphery of the Uighur Empire, which lasted from A.D. 742 to 848 and was held together by forces of warriors on horseback.According to the Siberian Times, archaeologists have found clay tablets of human feet, art on the walls, giant gates and fragments of burnt wood. There are also indications the structure was influenced by Chinese architectural tradition, yet the purpose of the isolated structure remains unknown.
Were some of those warriors once garrisoned at Por-Bajin? The Uighurs also might have built the site on an island for reasons other than defense. Perhaps the island was the site of a palace or a memorial for a ruler. Por-Bajin's unique layout, more intricate than that of other Uighur fortresses of the period, has led some scholars to suggest that it might have had a ritual role.
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Determining how the site was used might also help archaeologists understand why it was abandoned. There is some evidence of a great fire at Por-Bajin, but could there be other reasons the Uighurs eventually left?
Get the full story from the Archaeological Institute of America.
Reader Comments
Most ancient societies who wanted to be open and available to the community usually built there structures in a circular formation, or one that was easily accessible to a community. Seems strange that this structure was isolated and also had high walls to, maybe deter intruders into there secret enclave. As for religious practices that is anyone's guess. Maybe there might be a reason that the society/community lived there was so isolated. Reminds me in a way of Alcatraz.