Stone Sculptures of Jetisu and Saryarka: Spatial Patterns, Iconography and the Concept of GIS-register

A systematic digital inventory of Turkic-period stone sculptures in Jetisu and Saryarka, Kazakhstan, reveals striking spatial patterns: most sculptures are concentrated at the foot of mountains and river valleys, with nearly all figures oriented eastward. This study proposes a GIS-based methodological model for a unified digital registry, incorporating geographic coordinates, typology, dimensions, iconography, archaeological context, and preservation status. The structured data scheme enables standardized documentation, facilitating cartographic visualizations and comparative analyses. The research contributes to the preservation of cultural heritage, supports interdisciplinary studies, and provides insights into the sacred geography and social-religious practices of ancient Turkic communities.

Manapova, A., Assylbekov, K., Beisenbaeva, G., Turmakhan, N., Akkaliyeva, A., & Kassenova, A. (2025). STONE SCULPTURES OF JETISU AND SARYARKA: SPATIAL PATTERNS, ICONOGRAPHY AND THE CONCEPT OF GIS-REGISTER. Proceedings in Archaeology and History of Ancient and Medieval Black Sea Region, (21), 7–21. https://doi.org/10.53737/2713-2021.2025.83.51.001