Ancient and medieval archaeology is a science that studies the initial stages of the historical development of mankind. This field allows us to collect important data on the understanding of our past, culture, economy, and the social structure of antiquities and the Middle Ages. The objects of study of ancient and medieval archaeology cover topics such as the life of society, its existence, its religious beliefs and art, its everyday culture, as well as political and trade relations. Ancient archaeology studies the period of the first transition of mankind to settlement, the development of primitive agriculture, the formation of primitive cities and the flourishing of cultures. The main features of ancient societies depended on whether they were nomadic or sedentary. The social structure of ancient societies, their knowledge system and religious beliefs are also one of the important research topics in archaeological science. For example, sagans and necropolises dating back to the Early Iron Age, Stone Age tools reflect the life, worldview and culture of the people of those times. Medieval archaeology is a field that studies the cultures and societies of the medieval period of Europe and Asia. The archaeology of this period covers cities and trade routes in Turkestan, Kazakhstan, Central Asia and other regions. Culture, science and art, as well as the commercial and political relations of medieval societies and civilizations, are widely considered through archaeological research. The research methods of medieval archaeology can also be very different from ancient times. An important role at this time was played by the development of urban culture and the prosperity of trade relations. In addition, written monuments and archaeological excavations from these periods reveal the influence and interrelationships between cultures. The article examines the main directions of ancient and medieval archaeology, the peculiarities of societies in these periods, their cultural and social structures, as well as the prospects and importance of archaeological research. With the help of archaeological science, important steps are being taken to uncover the secrets of past eras, preserve historical heritage and pass it on to future generations.