The Reconstruction of the Karez Landscape of Turpan

Karez are tunnel systems that transport groundwater to fields and settlements in the arid Turpan basin in Xinjiang, Northwest China. This traditional technique is tied to more than just the physical environment, including social relations, beliefs, changing economic situations, etc. Thus, the notion of a “karez water landscape” is applied, uniting the tangible and intangible aspects. There are distinct settlement configurations visible on satellite imagery. Field interviews and historical sources reveal at least three incentives for karez construction: pioneering, prolonging, and supporting habitation and cultivation. Karez seem to be often instigated by low-level elites and officials, or sometimes by communities or families. The profession is a risky niche specialism which is under threat by the lack of intergenerational transfer. Karez are considered part of the cultural heritage and local identity, as evidenced by the connected myths, rituals, and traditions. The biggest question remains, however, namely when the karez technique was first applied in Turpan. While the oldest known date lies in the 15th century, they are believed to be older.