Archaeologists from Altai State University are developing a new type of tourism

The flow of tourists to Altai Krai is growing every year. Guests are mainly attracted by the natural resources of the region. But, according to the archaeologists of Altai State University, the historical and cultural heritage of Altai can become an equally interesting factor in attracting tourists and developing the tourist and recreational sector as a whole.

By "historical and cultural heritage" scientists mean, among other things, archaeological sites unique to Altai. Moreover, a strong archaeological scientific school is successfully operating on the basis of AltSU.

Nikolai Seregin, Doctor of Historical Sciences, Head of the Laboratory of Ancient and Medieval Archeology of Eurasia at AltSU, spoke about the new project, which received support within the framework of the Priority 2030 Program.

“One of the forms of updating our scientific results is to include them in the field of tourism. We have to admit that we are doing very little of this, since we are mainly focused on fundamental research. The new project includes conducting several archaeological expeditions, surveying a number of microdistricts, excavating a series of objects and their museumification, which, in fact, represents the first steps in creating an open-air museum. In addition, methodological recommendations will be developed for conducting excursions to the archaeological sites of Altai, which are useful for organizations providing services in the field of tourism,” said Nikolai Seregin.

The project is designed for several years, and it is planned to publish articles in leading domestic and foreign journals at different stages of its implementation, as well as to register databases of archaeological sites that have the greatest potential for diverse inclusion in the tourism sector, including the creation of appropriate infrastructure.

One of the key sites, on the basis of which part of the work of the project participants will be carried out, will be the Chemal archaeological expedition of Altai State University. According to the project manager, tourists who are interested in the ancient past of the region often come to the excavation site.

“The project involves both a fundamental part and an applied component, including work with travel agencies. Of course, we are open to any proposals and contacts in this regard. At the same time, a priority for us is a thorough study and preservation of the historical and cultural heritage of the peoples of Altai, which, of course, is a world-class property. In particular, after the excavations, we recreate in detail the original appearance of the archaeological sites, and the findings are given to museum institutions. It is also important that archaeological tourism, which is practically not developed in Altai, makes it possible to engage in educational activities at a qualitatively new level and acquaint many people with the ancient and medieval history of the region,” Nikolai Seregin emphasized.