Site of Ornek

Like many of the settlements along the Silk Roads, the ancient city of Ornek blossomed because of its important location along the trading networks, right between the Altynsu River and the city of Taraz. Founded in the 7th century, it was a major urban centre until the 12th century.

One of the notable features of Ornek is the way its fortifications were built to provide protection to the inside of the city. It is shaped almost as a square, with each side fitted with an entry that was safely guarded. This construction was completed by towers on each corner of the city, making Ornek a well protected site.

Similar to other medieval sites built in the same period in Kazakhstan, Ornek was built with stone. The city was busy but had enough infrastructure for its inhabitants to live peacefully, plant agriculture, and raise livestock. A mosque, a Muslim necropolis, and a rich mausoleum were also found by the archaeologists who explored Ornek in the 20th century. These were decorated with beautiful columns, pillars, and wall-engravings.

Ornek was abandoned in the 12th century for an unknown reason and most of the settlement disappeared over time. Although there is not a large amount of infrastructure to see when you visit, there is enough to get a sense of the scale of the site. The last remaining traces of its structure are still visible as a testimony of its importance to the Silk Road networks.