Chilpyk, situated in the heart of Karakalpakstan, Uzbekistan, stands as a testament to the ancient Zoroastrian civilization that once thrived in the region. This ancient monument, known as dakhma Chilpyk or Shylpyk, is estimated to be over 2200 years old, making it a fascinating window into the past.
The main feature of Chilpyk is its round roofless tower, standing 15 meters high and 65 meters in diameter. Built atop a natural hill, this tower served as a place of burial for the Zoroastrians. According to Zoroastrian tradition, the remains of the deceased were exposed to the elements and left for birds of prey to consume. The bones were later collected and placed in ossuaries, earthenware vessels, which were then buried in the ground. This burial practice was rooted in Zoroastrian philosophy, which emphasized the purity of the earth and the need to avoid defilement.
Originally, the tower had a 20-meter stairway with steps cut into the hill, leading to the top. Surrounding the tower and inside it, archaeologists have discovered numerous ossuaries made of clay and stone, some of which are now on display in museums in Nukus and Tashkent.
Over the centuries, Chilpyk has undergone several reconstructions. With the arrival of the Arabs in the 7th century, the tower was rebuilt, and further modifications were made during the heyday of ancient Khorezm in the 9th and 10th centuries. Some researchers suggest that during this time, Chilpyk may have served as a signal and defense tower, along with other fortresses in the Khorezm Shah State.
Today, Chilpyk is a prominent landmark in Karakalpakstan and is even featured on the coat of arms of the Republic. Visitors to Chilpyk are treated to a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, including the majestic Amu Darya river, lush green fields, and the stark contrast of the nearby wastelands and salt marshes. The site is best visited early in the morning to avoid the intense midday heat.
As a symbol of ancient Zoroastrian culture and history, Chilpyk stands as a reminder of the rich heritage of Karakalpakstan and the civilizations that once flourished in this region.