It was not long ago, in the 90’s, among the sands of the eastern Karakum desert, archaeology scientists discovered a huge necropolis dating back to the 3-2 millennia B.C. in the oasis of Mary. There was once a capital city, called today Gonur Tepe (translated from Turkmen as “Grey hill”) with its palace and few temples that could compete with erections of Assyria and Babylon.

Excavations of this place led scientists and historians to amazing discoveries. The temple town kept its mysteries in the sands of the desert for several thousands of years. Gonur Tepe was the largest settlement in the entire Margiana. It was located on a small hill on the right banks of the riverbed of Murgab. Excavations continue up to now, and archeologists still do not know how big the area is. The preliminary data gives clue that the area of the ancient city ranges between 30 to 50 hectares (1 hectare = 10 000 square meters). This assumed “capital” did not have a ruler with definite commanding authorities, governing the entire country, but rather a spiritual leader – a supreme priest. People respected him unforced and only willingly, prompted by the faith.