Burial Complex Isteekh Byraan (Central Yakutia): Physical and Geographical Conditions, Geocryological Conditions, Toponyms, and Narrative of the Natural Environment.

The subject of this research is the burial complex Isteekh Byraan, located on the terraces of the right bank of the Lena River and in part of the adjoining valley. The complex consists of several cemeteries from different time periods, integrated into the natural landscape: this includes the top of the terrace, its southern foothills, and the high bank of the stream flowing beneath the terraces. The focus of the study is the burial complex and historical events in the context of the natural landscape. The aim is to establish a connection between historical events, individuals, and the names of places within the natural landscape, as well as to introduce field materials into circulation. Data on the physical and geographical conditions of the burial complex have been summarized, as the natural factor may have played a significant role in the choice of this area as a burial site. Oral material regarding microtoponyms and the narrative of the monument was collected from local residents, and discussions were held during scientific and practical conferences and round tables dedicated to the history of the Khangalassky ulus. The complex terrain of the area, which had developed by the time the pasture settlers inhabited it, determined the location of the burial sites. It is likely that the picturesque landscapes corresponded to aesthetic and religious beliefs, as the burial complex and residential areas are located nearby. It was discovered that some of the existing microtoponyms can be attributed to earlier layers and have lost their meaningful significance. It is likely that the preserved oral tradition reflects previously existing rules of land distribution and inheritance among the local nobility and aristocracy. The study has demonstrated the potential of this direction and could be expanded into a collaborative interdisciplinary study of the monument.

Middle Lena, Khangalassky Ulus, Modern times, local studies, natural landscape, folklore, narrative, burial, Tygyin, Mazary Bozekov