In July 2025, archaeologists in Tajikistan discovered a significant necropolis near the village of Farob, close to the medieval city of Panjakent. The excavation, led by the Institute of History, Archaeology, and Ethnology of the Tajik Academy of Sciences, offers insights into the burial practices of ancient Sogdian culture.
The necropolis revealed three naos (vaulted burial chambers) carved into the loess massif. Inside, researchers found arched niches, the remains of nine individuals, ossuaries, and a Sogdian coin. The site also contained mixed burial forms, including crypts and direct body interments, which differ from traditional Zoroastrian practices.
Abdurakhmon Pulotov, director of the National Museum of Antiquities, noted the unusual combination of burial methods. The Farob region, near the ancient Keš River (now the Kaškadarja), was a crucial cultural center in ancient Sogdia.
Archaeologists plan DNA analysis of the skeletal remains to establish familial connections. Pulotov highlighted the site's potential for further discoveries, emphasizing the need for continued study.
This discovery highlights the importance of preserving archaeological sites in Tajikistan. These sites continue to reveal the rich history of Central Asia.