The study of the Ishmukhametovsky kurgan of the early iron age continues in the Baymak district.
Between the Burele and Bolshaya Urtazimka rivers, archaeologists found a large mound, presumably dating from the period of the VII-III centuries BC. The burial ground has a ring structure, its diameter is about 33 m, and the height of the earthen embankment is 0.75 m. The monument was located in an actively plowed area.
In the center of the mound, a burial was found: a sub-rectangular shape with rounded edges, measuring 3 by 4 m and 2 m deep, made of chopped thick blocks and logs. The burial is surrounded by strips of loam, forming a kind of fence, with a gap on the southern side.
A skeleton with an unusual burial rite was found in the burial. The remains of a man are oriented with his head to the north, he lies on his stomach, face down. The left arm is bent at the stomach, the right arm is stretched up. The phalanges of the fingers of both hands lie to the side, and the bones of the legs below the knees are missing. A bronze arrowhead was found in the bow.
Judging by some finds, the mound belongs to the time of the Sarmatians. An akinak sword peculiar to the period, fragments of clay vessels, and bronze ornaments were found. Fragments of other human skeletons, animal bones, and horses have also been found.
It is assumed that the injuries inflicted on the deceased could have a ritual purpose of neutralization, which could be applied to influential priests or shamans. Traces of looting, animal exposure, and destruction of buildings were also found near the mound.
The study of the monument has not yet been completed, but the unique mound allows us to take a broader look at the ancient history of the region. It is likely that other burials of that period may be discovered both in the mound itself and next to it.