Research and Documentation of the Botai Settlement Underway.

Talgat Bazarbayevich Mamirov, Head of the Stone Age Department of the A.Kh. Margulan Institute of Archaeology, Candidate of Historical Sciences and Associate Professor, and Kalibek Mukhametbekovich Asylbekov, Head of the Geomatics and Digital Archaeology Department, Master’s degree holder, are conducting comprehensive research of the current condition of the Botai settlement together with the research staff of the State Historical and Cultural Museum-Reserve “Botai”.

As part of the research, the condition of previously excavated archaeological sites and the locations of reconstructed dwellings are being assessed. Particular attention is being paid to their preservation, current condition and scientific documentation.

The researchers are also studying archival materials from the North Kazakhstan, Kokshetau and international archaeological expeditions to Botai, which were conducted under the leadership of V.F. Zaibert. Previous archaeological data are being compared with the results of modern field research.

The study applies field verification methods and modern remote-sensing technologies for archaeological sites, including aerial photography and satellite imagery. These methods make it possible to document the territory of the settlement comprehensively, clarify the location of archaeological features and assess their current state of preservation.

The ongoing research represents an important initial stage in the further scientific documentation of the Botai settlement, which is included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. The work is also aimed at ensuring the preservation of the archaeological heritage and strengthening the significance of the site as an important element of world cultural heritage.