One of the things we like to do the most at Vuela Viajes is to talk about the great enigmas of the planet, such as the Nazca Lines of Peru or the Richat Structure in the Sahara. Well, today we want to show you another of those places that remains a mystery to historians. We are referring to the island of Por-Bajin in Siberia, of which much information is unknown.
Located on Tuva’s Lake Tere-Khol in central Eurasia, the "mud house" (as it is known in the Tuva language) was discovered more than a century ago, but is still considered one of the most enigmatic monuments of Russia . Do you want to know more details about this mysterious place? Well, do not miss anything that we tell you below!
What is Por-Bajin?
Although there are no accurate data in this regard, it seems that Por-Bajin was built between 744 and 840, that is, at the time of the Khaganate Uighurs. However, the great enigma of this place is not the year of its construction, but its function. And it is still not known if it was a Buddhist temple, a summer residence or a fortress. In fact, there are some who hold the theory that it is an ancient observatory, while others believe that it looks like a kind of Chinese city-palace. Be that as it may, why did the Uyghurs build this place so far from trade routes and large settlements?
Other mysteries of Por-Bajin
But do not think that this is the only thing that is unknown about Por-Bajin. It is also not known if this impressive construction was made directly on Tere-Khol or if the island was formed after construction. What we do know is that this place was explored in 1891, carrying out small excavation work in the 50s and 60s. In addition, in 2007 some important archaeological remains were discovered, such as clay tablets of feet, drawings on the walls, giant doors and fragments of burned wood. Unfortunately, none of these discoveries have shed light on the origin of the construction. Furthermore, it is also unknown why it was abandoned in the 9th century.
At risk of disappearing
One of the things that most worries scientists, archaeologists and historians is that Por-Bajin is in danger of disappearing, since the increase in the temperature of the planet is causing the walls to be destroyed and the level of the lake to continue to rise. Apparently, according to the latest research, the walls could collapse in about 80 years. What’s more. These studies confirmed that two earthquakes had caused the beginning of the deterioration of the place. One took place in the 8th century and the other after the construction was abandoned.
A tremendously captivating place
The only thing that is clear is that it is a captivating place, in which the walls await some seven hectares of remains of dozens of buildings and a central structure divided into two parts but linked by a covered walkway that, apparently, was covered , since 36 wooden columns are preserved on stone bases. It is also known with quite certainty that the place was not built to inhabit it permanently, since more artifacts would have been found. In addition, there was no heating system in Por-Bajin, something strange considering the harsh climatic conditions of this area of ​​Siberia located more than 2,000 meters above sea level. Then we leave you with our gallery , where you will discover more images of the island of Por-Bajin. Do not miss it!
