A new archaeological mission has recently begun at Mongolia’s sacred Bor Ovoo hill. This excavation aims to preserve nomadic cultural heritage. Led by Prof. Dr. Kürşad Yıldırım of Istanbul University, the project unites Turkish and Mongolian researchers. Together, they seek to uncover the funerary customs of ancient steppe civilizations. The excavation, called “The Culture of Horsemen,” focuses on burial mounds known as kurgans. These mounds date from the Bronze Age to the 13th century. As a result, they hold valuable clues about the spiritual lives of Turkic and Mongol nomads. The work centers on Bor Ovoo and Shovkh Uul Mountain, areas rich in historical significance.
Bor Ovoo is located near the memorial complex of Uighur Khagan Moyen Chur. According to Prof. Yıldırım, this site hosted rituals for over 3,000 years. Ancient tribes used the hill to bury their elite and perform sacred ceremonies. Therefore, these traditions link directly to nomadic cultural heritage. Moreover, local people still regard Bor Ovoo as a sacred place. Although the team holds legal excavation permits, some residents express concern about the digging. This reaction highlights the deep cultural respect for the site.
Currently, the team excavates five key kurgans. Each mound likely contains bones, pottery, and metal objects. These finds provide insights into social hierarchy and ancient beliefs. Furthermore, they reveal cultural exchanges between nomadic and settled communities in Inner Asia. Prof. Yıldırım’s team consists of Turkish and Mongolian scholars. Their combined expertise creates a strong and balanced research partnership. They plan to complete mapping and artifact analysis within a year. Afterwards, they will publish findings in Turkish, Mongolian, and English.
Although artifacts will remain in Mongolia under official care, local museums may display the discoveries. The team hopes their work will raise global awareness of Mongolia’s crucial role in nomadic cultural heritage. Looking forward, they aim to continue excavations in the Orkhon Valley. According to Prof. Yıldırım, this area holds keys to understanding early Turkic empires. In summary, this project offers more than scientific knowledge. It tells a story of shared identity shaped by the vast Central Asian steppes and a rich nomadic cultural heritage.
