2022 archaeological survey at Shylikty valley (Eastern Kazakhstan)

The article provides the results of ongoing exploration and research of the Karasai Mesolithic complex located in the Eastern Kazakhstan in 2022. During this season, we could expand the surface collection of the Karasai site by the artifacts from different locations of the Zapadny stream left bank. Moreover, we have improved our understanding of stratigraphy and boundaries of the culture-bearing layer of the site. Direct correlation between the artifacts found in the surface collection near the site in 2019 and the industry previously found at the Karasai site was revealed. These items can be attributed to the Mesolithic period as well. A new test pit 2.7 meters deep with a bottom area of 4 sq. m was excavated in the concentration area of the surface collection located 50 meters lower than the 2019 test pit. The obtained stratigraphic section correlates with the section of the 2019 test pit; however, the inventory of the surface collection as well as the test pit in this part of the site looks more ancient and is located in Layer 2 at lower levels. These materials can be tentatively attributed to the Upper Paleolithic, since they have a certain similarity with the assemblages from Layers 5.1-4 at the Ushbulak site. Three new sites were discovered in the north of the Shilikty Valley, Sarman, Sarytumysk, and Kyzyl. These locations confirmed the assumption on feasibility of searching for the Stone Age items in estuaries and valleys of small streams associated with the lower zone of the mountain around the Saur Ridge. These sites are promising for further research, including excavations.