Stones, Bones, and Communal Rituals in the Mongolian Bronze Age: Khirigsuurs and the Question of the Missing Elements

Khirigsuurs are Late Bronze Age monuments found across Mongolia. Although mostly interpreted as mortuary structures, there is broad agreement that khirigsuurs also served as settings for communal rituals and seasonal gatherings. A key feature is the selective deposition of horse remains, mainly skulls, neck vertebrae, and hooves, while meaty axial and long bones are absent. This study investigates whether large-scale butchering and feasting took place at or near khirigsuurs through soil phosphate analysis and shovel testing at two sites in Züünkhangai, Mongolia. Results show no significant phosphate enrichment or bone concentrations, suggesting that intensive butchering did not occur at these sites. Archaeological, ethnographic, and historical sources suggest that butchering occurred off-site, with portions of the animals brought to khirigsuurs for ceremonial use. This practice, common in pastoralist societies, likely accounts for the absence of large bones at the monuments. Further research into off-site butchering and discard locations is needed to better understand the ritual practices and animal treatment associated with khirigsuurs.