Archaeologists uncovered two medieval cities in Central Asia that were integrated into the Silk Road network, challenging the conventional view that trade avoided the rugged mountains. The first city, Tashbulak, was discovered in 2011, with a surprising 30-acre medieval city found at around 7,000 feet above sea level. The second site, Tugunbulak, was mapped using lidar technology, revealing a sprawling nearly 300-acre city integrated into the Silk Road routes. Metallurgy may have sustained the city at high altitudes, as pottery, kilns, and iron smelting remains were excavated. These discoveries highlight the interconnected nature of trade routes and the potential of highland societies.
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/lost-silk-road-cities-discovered-high-in-the-mountains-of-central-asia/