Samarkand, situated in Uzbekistan, Central Asia, rests at the base of the Alai Mountains, boasting an altitude of 720 meters. To the southeast, lying 400 kilometers distant, are the renowned Pamir Mountains.

Samarkand, known to the ancient Greeks as “Marakanda,” gained renown for its fertile plain, “Zarashan,” referred to by the Greeks as “Polytimetos.” Founded by the Persians, the city’s citadel fell to Alexander the Great in 329 BC. Under Muslim rule, particularly during the Persian reign of the Samanid dynasty, the city experienced rapid development. The Mongols, led by Genghis Khan, razed the city in 1220. During the reign of the Mongol Khan Timur Lenk, Samarkand became the capital of his empire. In 1925, the city became the capital of Uzbekistan, later relocating to Tashkent.

The reason for this introduction? Well, in a 1903 photograph taken in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, some archaeologists can be seen standing in front of what appears to be a kind of “star gate”! This gate ranks among the rarest artifacts I have ever encountered. Its appearance is reminiscent of something out of a sci-fi movie or as if it originated from another dimension! (By the way, do you remember the sci-fi series “Stargate”?)

Unfortunately, the “star gate” is no longer housed in any museum worldwide, but it’s possible it ended up in a private collection. On the other hand, take a look at the characters on the edges of the gate… Similar characters can also be found in the “Stargate” series! Were the producers of this series inspired by this mysterious discovery?

Where is the artifact now? And why was it hidden?

PS On the Internet, this photo sparked some discussion. Some believe the picture is fake, i.e., manipulated. But until there is very clear proof that it was “photoshopped,” we have to give it credit.