In a groundbreaking discovery, the memorial complex and inscription of Ilterish Kutluk Khagan, the founder of the Second Eastern Göktürk Khaganate, have been unearthed. The announcement was made by the Turkish World Research Foundation, marking a significant milestone in Turkic history.
The discovery was made in the Nomgon Valley of Mongolia’s Ötüken region during a joint archaeological expedition by the International Turkic Academy and the Mongolian Institute of Archaeology. The site, located in Hangai Jote, includes a monument complex and inscriptions dedicated to Ilterish Kutluk Khagan, the father of Kül Tigin and Bilge Khagan, who played a pivotal role in reviving the Turkic Khaganate after freeing the Turks from Chinese domination.
A Legacy of Liberation
Ilterish Kutluk Khagan, also known as Aşına Kutluk, ruled between 682 and 691 AD. Alongside his advisor, Bilge Tonyukuk, he led a rebellion against Chinese rule, reestablishing the Turkic Khaganate with Ötüken as its capital. His efforts earned him the title “Ilterish,” meaning “the one who gathers the nation.”
Kutluk Khagan is renowned for his military prowess, having never lost a battle during his numerous campaigns against Chinese territories. After his death, he was succeeded by his brother, Kapgan Khagan.
A Monumental Discovery
The newly discovered monument complex and inscription add to the rich legacy of the Göktürk Khaganate, following the earlier discoveries of inscriptions dedicated to Bilge Tonyukuk, Kül Tigin, and Bilge Khagan. The site features a fragment of the inscription, a lion statue, and an altar stone, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the era.
Darhan Kıdıralı, a representative of the International Turkic Academy, stated:
“We have found the monument erected in honor of Ilterish Khagan, the father-in-law of Bars Beg Khagan. The inscription is in Old Turkic and Sogdian. Further details will be announced tomorrow at a press conference in Ulaanbaatar.”
Potential Historical Significance
The inscription is particularly noteworthy as it may be the first known artifact to include the word “Türk” (Turk). Experts suggest that the discovery could provide invaluable insights into early Turkic history and language.
Elvin Yıldırım, Head of the History Department at Istanbul Aydın University, shared his excitement on social media:
“The memorial complex and inscription of Ilterish Kutluk Khagan, the father of Kül Tigin and Bilge Khagan, have been discovered. Congratulations to the International Turkic Academy and the Mongolian Institute of Archaeology!”
A Press Conference to Reveal More
The Turkish World Research Foundation will hold a press conference in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, tomorrow to provide further details about the discovery.
This monumental find not only sheds light on the life and legacy of Ilterish Kutluk Khagan but also reinforces the deep historical roots of the Turkic world.
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