Rites and rituals of ancient turkic period by the written sources

A comprehensive reconstruction of ancient Turkic rituals and their reflection in steppe Eurasian architecture emerges from cross-linguistic analysis of diverse written sources. By synthesizing chronicles, runic texts, and annals—including Chinese, Arabic-Persian, European, and Orkhon inscriptions—the study reveals a structured worldview centered on sacred landscapes (open areas, elevations, groves) for ceremonies and urban temples for annual festivities. The Bozok microdistrict is identified as a key medieval cult center within Saryarka. This approach bridges archaeological reconstructions with narrative evidence, offering unprecedented insight into the ritual practices of pre-Islamic Turkic societies.

Bilyalova, G., Tleugabulov, D., Yumakayeva, E.,. (2018). Rites and rituals of ancient turkic period by the written sources. Journal of History, 91(4), 88–95. https://doi.org/10.26577/jh-2018-4-302