Abstract
This article examines the architectural features of burial structures of the Kimek Khaganate as an important source for understanding the historical and cultural processes of the Early Middle Ages across the Eurasian steppes. It analyses the principal types of above-ground funerary architecture, including square, rectangular, and oval stone fences, some forming elongated burial mounds, as well as rounded stone, stone-and-earth, and earthen mounds, stone and mud-brick grave constructions, and additional elements defining the sacred space of necropolises. Particular attention is given to structural features of fences, the techniques used in their construction, orientation, layout and use of various types of building stone. The study examines data from archaeological investigations of sites such as the Zevakinsky and Orlovsky, Jartas, Leontievsky, Kovalevka, Temir-Kanka II, Izmailovka, Belokamenka, Akchiy I–III, Karashat I–II, Sandykkala, Kogaly I, Ayan, Tuyetas, Kansar, and Menovnoye VI, XII. It is noted that the architectural features of the Kimek burial complexes reflect complex ethno-cultural interactions in the 9th-11th centuries and bear witness to the preservation and transformation of architectural and funerary traditions of the ancient Turkic population. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of Kimek funerary architecture, ritual practices, cultural continuity, regional diversity, and worldview.