The ancient city of Sauran

Ancient city with spectacular vestiges, the historical and archaeological site of Sauran is about 200 km from Shymkent, around 40 km north-west of Turkestan.

At first sight, the fortification surrounding the ancient city of Sauran looks like a meteorite impact. Indeed, the seven walls that compose it make a relatively circular shape, with an approximated diameter of 600 m. The current wall was built during the 17th century and is incredibly well preserved.

The ancient Sauran appears during the 1st century AD, but expands from the 12th century.
This fresh island of greenery in an arid steppe was then a major stopover for nomads or caravans traveling through the Silk Road.
Inside the fortress were hosted houses and public buildings, while outside were grown large fields, vineyards and orchards.
Underground aqueducts allowed the irrigation of the whole area, and the filling of the moat surrounding walls.

Many fragments of dishes found everywhere on the place suggest that Sauran was an important producer of ceramics, flourishing trade during the 13th and 14th centuries.
Despite many attacks and sieges, Sauran stayed up until the middle of the 18th century, when it became a simple small town, crushed by the new notoriety of Turkestan.

The access to the ancient city is free and unguarded. So, be respectful of the place and of the work of restoration, avoiding climbing on constructions and by not taking a “memory” of the site with you.