Archaeologists have discovered the remains of a mosque dating to the second half of the 13th and 14th centuries at the medieval settlement of Otyrar in Kazakhstan's Turkestan Region, offering new insights into the city's history during the Golden Horde period.

Researchers said the building is the oldest mosque identified so far at the historic site. Excavations also uncovered a stone-paved street leading to the mosque, a discovery described as unique for the ancient city, The Caspian Post reports, citing the Kazakh government website.

The archaeological team also found a brick staircase dating to the 15th and 16th centuries, indicating that the street continued to be used for several centuries after the mosque was constructed.

According to the researchers, the discoveries further highlight Otyrar's historical importance as one of the leading commercial and cultural centres along the Great Silk Road.