Towns, Fortress, and Wall: Northern and Western Frontier of Liao Empire in Mongolian Steppe
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: The fortified settlements of Liao empire (907–1125) on the territory of Mongolia have been surveyed since 2004. As a result, a detailed map of all monuments of Liao empire in Mongolia was compiled. In addition, excavations of Chin Tolgoin Balgas in 2004–2008, and Khermen Denj in 2010 2012, 2017 2019 were conducted. The block structure of the town’s layout was revealed. Dwellings, stone foundations, estates and internal lanes were discovered within the blocks. A large number of ceramic and tile fragments, other artifacts including works of art, and remains of fauna was revealed during excavations. The presence of Bohai population discovered, which is confirmed by archaeological data. In 1004, 20 thousands of the Khitan horsemen were sent here for military service, which were supplemented by 700 families of Bohai, Jurchens and Chinese for providing of them with food. The three fortresses (Zhenzhou, Fangzhou, Weizhou) are Chintolgoy Balgas, Kharbukhyn Balgas and Ulan Kherem. The Khermen Denzh fortress is probably located on the territory of former Uigur town of Kedun (Toγu balyq).
Authors: Nikolay N. Kradin, Aleksandr L. Ivliev, Artur V. Kharinsky
Language: English
Topic: Eurasian Exchange Networks
Subfield: Anthropology
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4417315154