The rich iron deposits of the Altai and the local metalworking tradition support this reading. Mounted cavalry equipment (stirrup, armour, sword) was the work of Turkic smiths.
Frequently asked questions
- What was Proto-Turkic Smiths of the Altai?
- In Göktürk sources the Ashina clan works in the "iron villages" of the Rouran; the relationship between the name "Türk" and smithing/metalworking is debated by linguists and historians.
- When did Proto-Turkic Smiths of the Altai happen?
- 100 CE
- Where did Proto-Turkic Smiths of the Altai take place?
- Altay Dağları