Historical monuments, especially a whole range of archaeological findings testify to the high culture and creative talent of popular craftsmen of the Qashqadaryo region in various periods. For example, one of the central towns of the Southern Sogd currently an archaeological monument Uzunqir (7th - 6th cc . B.C.) on the territory of Kitab district was surrounded by defensive walls and had an inner fortress. Later, in 329 B.C., the troops of Alexander the Great came under the town walls from the territories of the earlier conquered Asia Minor and Iran. Uzunqir was the center of Sogd Region. Known in antique sources as Nikshapa, Nikshapaya or Ksenippa, another center of South Sogd (presently Yerqorgon ancient site in Qarshi) was located in the lower reaches of the Qashqadaryo River.
Unfortunately, no samples of early medieval monumental epigraphy have been discovered. But there is no doubt that the written language already existed at that time, and subsequently, one or another form of epigraphy. Researchers have found ceramics and certain items with Sogd inscriptions.
You can learn more about the topic in the book-album "Architectural epigraphy of Uzbekistan. Qashqadaryo, Shahrisabz" of the series "Architectural epigraphy of Uzbekistan".
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Where are the ruins of the city of Uzunkir located?
The region's diverse historical and cultural heritage reflects the life of the area's population during different periods.