Russia’s determined researcher, Sergei Shoygu, has embarked on a profound mission to unveil the enigmatic mysteries of the ancient Scythian warriors buried in Ukraіne’s “Dolly the Sheep” burial grounds. This archaeological endeavor delves into the world of Scythian burial sites, aiming to decipher the genetic secrets preserved in the remains of warriors and their prized possessions, using cutting-edge DNA preservation technology.
Sergei Shoygu, one of Vladimir Putin’s closest allies, is passionate about unraveling the potential of the extraordinary 3,000-year-old Scythian burial sites in Tuva, his native region, which holds a wealth of historical significance.
The Tuva burial site is considered an archaeological treasure, known as the “Valley of the Kings” in Tuva. When Shoygu initiated the joint Russian-Swiss archaeological digs here, it marked a significant moment in the quest to extract valuable information from the preserved DNA of the ancient Scythian warriors.
Shoygu, at the age of 65, inaugurated the Russian-Swiss archaeological project, leading a team of scientists to explore the burial mounds that have been left undisturbed for centuries. The project aims to shed light on the Scythians’ way of life, their rituals, and their role in the region’s history.
The burial mounds, also known as kurgans, contain a wealth of artifacts that are believed to offer insights into the Scythian society. Shoygu expressed his belief that the findings could potentially reshape our understanding of the ancient civilization. He emphasized the importance of preserving and studying the archaeological heritage, stating, “Of course, we would like very much to find the organic material.”
Shoygu, known for his interest in preserving the remains of ancient people and animals, revealed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “I believe you understand what will follow that, if not Dolly the Sheep.”
He added that he is eager to explore the possibilities of extracting intact remains of ancient people and animals, according to TASS.
“We have conducted several experiments there already, but a lot remains to be done,” Shoygu said in an interview with Zvezda TV. “It would be possible to make something of it, if not Dolly the Sheep.”
Shoygu has been thrust into the spotlight for his commitment to finding “archaic” material, a term used to describe remains that could offer unprecedented insights into ancient societies. While the excitement surrounding the discoveries is palpable, there is still much to uncover in the mounds and the remains found within, akin to a tantalizing puzzle waiting to be solved.
The burial site in Tuva is part of a broader effort to uncover the secrets of the Scythian civilization. Historian Herodotus in the fifth century BC claimed that the Scythians drank the blood of their enemies from their skulls after victory in battle.
The savage war rituals of the Scythians have long fascinated historians and archaeologists. The burial mounds in Tuva, home to nomadic warriors, are believed to hold clues about their military prowess and social structures.
Shoygu’s initiation into the study of “organic” materials represents a significant departure in his public roles, as he is more commonly associated with military and geopolitical matters. However, his interest in unraveling the genetic mysteries of the Scythians showcases a different facet of his multifaceted personality.
As the Russian-Swiss archaeological team continues to excavate the Tuva burial sites, the scientific community eagerly awaits the unveiling of the ancient secrets that have been buried for millennia, heralding a potential paradigm shift in our understanding of the Scythian civilization.