The article deals with the history of the study of medieval cities in the lower reaches of the Syr Darya. The research work carried out at each stage is widely considered. In particular, the results of archaeological excavations and research in the first local history, Soviet and independent periods will be considered.
In order to turn these settlements into an open-air museum in the future, information will be provided on the cities of Shirik-Rabat, Zhankent, Sortobe, Kyshkala and Syganak.