THE ROLE OF MODERN RELIEF FORMATION IN THE STUDY OF ANCIENT BURIAL MOUNDS (BASED ON THE MATERIALS OF KOGALI VALLEY)

Abstract

Changes in the natural conditions of the relief surface, under the influence of natural and anthropogenic factors become the cause of disturbance and loss of historical monuments. The aim is to study the modern relief of the Karabulak River basin using geoinformation systems to search and identify burials, to determine the current geomorphological conditions to prevent the destruction of the archaeological landscape of the area. The work presents new data on the current state of the basin relief and substantiates susceptibility to erosion processes of the valley areas with burials. These results are of practical interest for the management of ancient burials and the assessment of landscape and climate change over the period of burials. The study utilized stock materials, remote sensing data, aerial field photography, geospatial analysis and mapping. As a result, morphometric analysis of the relief was performed, maps of hypsometry, steepness of slope and slope exposure were constructed; geomorphological analysis of the terrain was carried out, and a map of modern relief was constructed. A total of 211 burials were identified, circular in shape with an embankment, of which 14 burials with a ditch and an embankment around the circumference. Of these, 30 burials were in the zone of linear and plume erosion, as they are located on the modern terrace of the Karabulak River. Identified 23 burial sites susceptible to destruction as a result of ploughing. Identification of vulnerable or stable burial sites allows archaeological researchers to develop and recommend monitoring and management measures in accordance with the requirements of protection of historical sites and rational land use.