Bronze Age Deer Stones in Uushgiyn Uvur
If you’re interested in archaeology, a visit to the Uushigiyn Uver archaeological site in Mongolia is a must. This site is home to what are believed to be the most intact deer stones from the Bronze Age in the country, with a total of 14 pieces on display. The site is located about one kilometer north of the Delgermurun River and 20 kilometers west of Moron, making it an easy stop on the way to Lake Khovsgol.
The excavations at the Uushigiyn Uver site were carried out with significant contributions from a team of Japanese and Russian archaeologists. Of the 14 deer stones on display, only one features a human face alongside a female face, while all others depict animals such as deer and objects like bows and arrows. The stones are gray on the outside, with the white rock engravings standing out clearly.
It is believed that these stones were originally Scythian tombstones and are over 2000 years old. In addition to the deer stones, the site also features several flat stones whose meaning remains unclear. Visitors can also see a roughly half-meter high and almost two-meter-long rectangular stone that likely served as an altar for sacrifice, called Khirgisuur.
If you’re planning a visit to Uushigiyn Uver, be aware that entry costs 3000 MNT, and information boards are labeled in English to help visitors understand the significance of the site and the artifacts on display. With its rich history and impressive collection of Bronze Age deer stones, Uushigiyn Uver is an essential stop for anyone interested in exploring Mongolia’s archaeological heritage.
