Astana Cemetery

Astana Cemetery is an archaeological funerary complex in Xinjiang associated with medieval oasis settlements near Turpan, noted for its preserved tombs and burial furnishings from the early medieval period.

The site contains clusters of underground tombs with remaining wall paintings, textiles and wooden grave goods that illustrate funerary practices in the Turpan Basin. Protective shelters and an on-site display present many of the excavated objects and help visitors understand the cemetery’s archaeological context.

The cemetery was used between roughly the 3rd and 8th centuries CE by inhabitants of the oasis states in the Turpan region; it reflects cultural connections along Silk Road routes. Systematic excavation and documentation took place during the 20th century, and many finds have been conserved and displayed in local museums.

Situated in the Turpan Depression of Xinjiang, the cemetery lies within the arid basin near historic caravan towns and close to the Flaming Mountains and other Silk Road archaeological sites.

• Dating and significance: The cemetery contains tombs dating mainly from the 3rd to the 8th centuries CE and is important for Silk Road-era funerary art and preserved organic material.
• Best time to visit: Visit in cooler months; the Turpan area can be very hot in mid-summer and archaeological shelters are exposed to sun and heat.

What to See #

• Tomb clusters: Clusters of burial shafts and chamber tombs largely excavated in the 20th century, containing textile fragments, wooden objects and wall paintings dating from early medieval use.
• On-site display and shelters: A site museum and protective shelters display finds and help interpret the excavated tombs and painted decorations for visitors.