URBAN CONSTRUCTION IN THE ARAL SEA REGION DURING ANTIQUITY

Abstract

The Aral Sea region occupies an important place in the ancient history of Central Asia. Located at the intersection of major cultural and economic routes, the region developed distinctive traditions of settlement, urban construction, irrigation, fortification, and architectural planning. During antiquity, communities living around the ancient Aral Sea and the lower Amu Darya developed various forms of permanent settlements, fortified towns, administrative centers, and agricultural communities. Archaeological sites such as Akcha Khan Kala, Toprak-Kala, Koykrylgan-Kala, and other fortified settlements provide important evidence concerning the organization of urban space and the development of architectural technologies in ancient Khorezm. The construction of cities in the region was closely connected with irrigation agriculture, environmental conditions, political organization, defense, and trade. Fortification walls, monumental buildings, residential quarters, religious structures, and hydraulic systems demonstrate the high level of engineering knowledge possessed by ancient populations. This article examines the main characteristics of urban construction in the Aral Sea region during antiquity, focusing particularly on the architectural organization of ancient Khorezm and the relationship between urban development and the natural environment. The study also considers the historical significance of archaeological monuments for understanding the cultural development of the region.