Ancient DNA reveals the multiethnic structure of Mongolia’s first nomadic empire

Credit: Dairycultures Project

The Xiongnu built a multiethnic empire on the Mongolian steppe that was connected by trade to Rome, Egypt, and Imperial China. Artist reconstruction of life among the Xiongnu imperial elite by Galmandakh Amarsanaa.

« Ancient DNA reveals the multiethnic structure of Mongolia’s first nomadic empire

Credit: J. Bayarsaikhan

Excavation of the Xiongnu Elite Tomb 64 containing a high status aristocratic woman at the site of Takhiltiin Khotgor, Mongolian Altai.

« Ancient DNA reveals the multiethnic structure of Mongolia’s first nomadic empire

Credit: J. Bayarsaikhan

Golden icons of the sun and moon, symbols of the Xiongnu, decorating the coffin found in Elite Tomb 64 at the Takhiltiin Khotgor site, Mongolian Altai.

« Ancient DNA reveals the multiethnic structure of Mongolia’s first nomadic empire

Credit: Bryan K. Miller

Child’s bow and arrow set from Grave 26 at the Shombuuziin Belchir cemetery.

« Ancient DNA reveals the multiethnic structure of Mongolia’s first nomadic empire

Expert Pitch

Expert Query

Expert Directory