The innovation of iron and the Xiongnu – a case study from Central Mongolia

Abstract This article presents the oldest iron smelting furnaces of Xiongnu Empire period in central Mongolia and argues that a significant center existed at site Baga Nariĭn Am. Five four installations were excavated, with total 26 further identified through SQUID magnetometry. In combination review data on production contemporary Mongolia, Transbaikal region, Tuva, Minusinsk Basin Altai, we argue this new alters existing narratives adoption eastern Eurasia. While as such was adopted from Basin, where Eurasia are currently found, suggest driving force behind massive boom metallurgy second century BCE onward Empire. During course Empire, development more efficient technology is evident, steppe empire also inventing furnace type. These findings for understanding dynamics industries Eurasian Steppe paves way necessary work metallurgical Tuva.