Abstract
Research of the Kargaly scientific detachment in 2022 in the Zhambyl district of Almaty region was carried out near the northern slopes of Ile Alatau on the territory of the Kargaly, Kastek and Degere historical and geographical microdistricts. As a result of reconnaissance, about 50 archaeological sites of the Paleometal era were noted – settlements, burial grounds and sacred complexes. Specialized studies of a new type of archaeological monuments – stones with cup-shaped holes have been carried out. Three complexes with “fields” of cup stones have been identified in the valley of the Uzyn-Kargaly, Kastek and Shien rivers. Along their perimeter, a series of burial grounds of the Paleometal era and the Early Iron Age and objects of cult and ritual purpose are recorded. The general physical and geographical characteristics of the region have been compiled and materials characterizing the living conditions and economic activity of the population of the Paleometal epoch have been obtained. The conditions and resources for the development of nomadic, semi-nomadic cattle breeding, irrigated agriculture and the development of crafts have been clarified.