by nobody The Lost Empire of Tartaria: Hidden History They Don’t Want You to Know! Have you ever wondered why certain civilizations seem to vanish from our history books? The mysterious empire of Tartaria might be the most compelling example of potentially suppressed historical knowledge. Once spanning vast territories across Asia and possibly beyond, this advanced civilization has seemingly been erased from modern maps and mainstream historical accounts. What happened to Tartaria, and why don’t we learn about it in school? Historical map showing the vast territories once labeled as “Tartaria” or “Tartary” What Was Tartaria? The Forgotten Empire Tartaria (also spelled Tartary) was a historical name used to describe a vast region spanning from the Caspian Sea and Ural Mountains in the west to the Pacific Ocean in the east. On maps dating from the 15th to the 19th century, this enormous territory covered much of what we now know as Russia, Central Asia, and parts of the Far East. The gradual disappearance of Tartaria from world maps between the 18th and 19th centuries According to conspiracy theories that have gained popularity since around 2016, Tartaria wasn’t just a geographical designation but a highly advanced civilization with technology potentially surpassing our own. Proponents suggest this empire achieved world peace and developed free energy technologies before being deliberately erased from history. Did you know? A declassified CIA document from 1957 allegedly mentions the deletion of Tartaria’s history, fueling conspiracy theories about deliberate historical suppression. While mainstream historians view Tartary simply as a historical geographical term for Central Asia and Siberia, conspiracy theorists see something more sinister at play. What if an entire civilization—potentially more advanced than our own—was systematically removed from our collective memory? Mainstream Historical View Historical illustration of Tatar peoples from Central Asia Historians explain that “Tartary” was simply a European term for regions inhabited by Turkic and Mongolic peoples following the Mongol invasions. The term gradually disappeared as more precise geographical knowledge developed. Conspiracy Theory View Ornate Gilded Age architecture claimed to be Tartarian in origin Conspiracy theorists argue that Tartaria was an advanced global civilization with spectacular architecture and free energy technology that was deliberately hidden from history through coordinated suppression. The Mud Flood Theory: How Tartaria Disappeared One of the most intriguing aspects of the Tartaria conspiracy involves what believers call the “mud flood” – a catastrophic event that supposedly buried much of the world’s architecture and helped erase evidence of this advanced civilization. Old photograph showing buildings with partially buried first floors Historical photograph showing what some theorists claim is evidence of the “mud flood” – buildings with partially submerged lower levels Proponents of this theory point to buildings around the world with architectural elements like doors, windows, and archways that appear to be partially submerged below modern street level. They suggest this is evidence of a catastrophic mud flood that buried the first floors of many structures, forcing people to use what were originally second floors as new ground floors. “The evidence is hiding in plain sight. Look at any old city center and you’ll find buildings with windows and doors half-buried underground. We’re walking on top of an older civilization.” Common claim among Tartaria conspiracy theorists According to the theory, this cataclysmic event occurred sometime in the 18th or 19th century, wiping out much of the Tartarian civilization and providing an opportunity for the “winners” of history to rewrite the past. Some versions suggest that World Wars I and II were further efforts to destroy remaining evidence of this lost empire. Architectural example showing basement windows at street level Architectural anomalies like these are cited as evidence for the mud flood theory Alternative Explanation: Urban planners and historians explain that street levels in many cities were deliberately raised over time for various practical reasons, including improved drainage, flood control, and infrastructure development. This process, known as “grade raising,” was well-documented in cities like Chicago and Seattle. Architectural “Evidence”: The Buildings of Tartaria Central to the Tartaria conspiracy theory is the claim that many ornate buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries were not actually built during that time period but were remnants of the advanced Tartarian civilization. Ornate domed building claimed to be of Tartarian origin Domed Architecture Conspiracy theorists point to similarities in domed buildings worldwide as evidence of a unified global civilization. Star fort aerial view showing geometric pattern Star Forts The geometric star fort designs found across continents are claimed to be energy-generating structures rather than defensive fortifications. World's Fair building with elaborate architecture World’s Fair Structures The elaborate buildings of World’s Fairs, many later demolished, are suggested to be repurposed Tartarian structures. Believers in the Tartaria theory often question how such elaborate structures could have been built in an era before modern construction equipment. They point to the contrast between the muddy streets and horse-drawn carriages of the time and the towering, ornate stone buildings that dominated city centers. Contrast between ornate architecture and primitive transportation in historical photo The contrast between elaborate architecture and primitive transportation of the era raises questions for conspiracy theorists Why do conspiracy theorists believe these buildings weren’t built when history claims? Proponents argue that the level of architectural detail and the speed at which these buildings allegedly appeared seems implausible given the technology of the time. They question how such massive stone structures could be built without modern equipment, especially in such large numbers across the world in a relatively short period. What’s the mainstream explanation for these architectural similarities? Architectural historians explain these similarities through the spread of architectural styles and knowledge. The Beaux-Arts and Neoclassical movements were international phenomena with architects trained in similar traditions. Construction techniques were well-documented, and skilled craftsmen traveled widely, bringing their expertise to different regions. Free Energy Technology: The Ultimate Suppression? Perhaps the most revolutionary claim in the Tartaria conspiracy theory is that this lost civilization had mastered free energy technology – a system for generating unlimited wireless energy that has since been suppressed by modern power structures. Old building with unusual towers and antenna-like structures Architectural features that conspiracy theorists interpret as evidence of advanced energy technology Theorists point to the numerous domes, spires, and towers on old buildings as evidence of an atmospheric energy collection system. They suggest that copper domes and metal statues atop buildings weren’t merely decorative but were functional components of a worldwide wireless energy grid. The Tesla Connection Nikola Tesla with his wireless energy transmission equipment Many Tartaria believers connect their theories to Nikola Tesla’s work on wireless energy transmission, suggesting that Tesla had rediscovered ancient Tartarian technology that was subsequently suppressed by industrial interests led by figures like J.P. Morgan. Architectural “Evidence” Ornate building with copper dome and metal features Conspiracy theorists interpret features like copper domes, metal spires, and intricate metalwork on old buildings as components of an atmospheric energy harvesting system rather than purely decorative elements. Critical Thinking Point: While many historical buildings do feature metal elements that could be interpreted as technological in nature, architectural historians explain these as lightning protection systems, structural reinforcements, or simply decorative features reflecting the aesthetic preferences of the era. Historical Contradictions and Anomalies Believers in the Tartaria conspiracy theory point to several historical anomalies that they claim support their narrative of a hidden civilization: The rapid disappearance of “Tartary” from maps between the early 19th century and late 19th century Photographs from the late 19th century showing seemingly deserted cities with elaborate architecture The apparent destruction of many ornate buildings from World’s Fairs and exhibitions Similarities in architectural styles across continents before modern globalization The contrast between primitive transportation and advanced architecture in the same era Empty streets of an ornate city in historical photograph Historical photographs showing seemingly empty cities with elaborate architecture fuel conspiracy theories One particular point of interest for theorists is the apparent lack of construction photographs for many major buildings from the late 19th century. While this can be explained by the limitations of early photography and the fact that construction documentation wasn’t a priority, conspiracy theorists see it as evidence that these buildings weren’t actually constructed during this period but were remnants of an earlier civilization. “History is written by the winners. What if the story we’ve been told about our architectural heritage is a carefully constructed narrative designed to hide a more remarkable truth?” Common sentiment among Tartaria researchers Origins of the Tartaria Conspiracy Theory While the Tartaria conspiracy has gained significant traction online since around 2016, its roots go back much further. The theory appears to have originated in Russia with aspects first appearing in Anatoly Fomenko’s “New Chronology” in the 1970s and 1980s, which proposed a radical revision of world history. The evolution of the Tartaria conspiracy theory from Russian nationalism to global internet phenomenon The theory was later popularized by Nikolai Levashov’s work on “racial occult history.” In Russian pseudoscience, Tartaria is often presented as the “real” name for Russia, which was supposedly maliciously ignored in the West – reflecting nationalist themes rather than global conspiracy. Interestingly, when the theory spread globally via the internet, it largely shed its Russian nationalist framing and became more focused on architectural history and the idea of a suppressed advanced civilization. This transformation shows how conspiracy theories can evolve and adapt as they spread across different cultural contexts. Modern Spread: The Tartaria conspiracy theory gained significant popularity through social media platforms, particularly visual platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube, where compelling images of ornate architecture and old maps can be shared without extensive historical context. The Psychological Appeal of the Tartaria Narrative Why has the Tartaria conspiracy theory resonated with so many people? Experts suggest several psychological factors that make this narrative compelling: Nostalgia for “Lost Greatness” Comparison of modern and classical architecture styles The theory appeals to those who feel that modern architecture and society have lost the grandeur and craftsmanship of the past. It suggests that humanity has regressed rather than progressed. Distrust of Official Narratives Person researching alternative history theories online In an era of increasing institutional distrust, theories that challenge established historical narratives resonate with those who already question official accounts in other areas. Zach Mortice, writing for Bloomberg, describes the Tartaria theory as “the QAnon of architecture,” suggesting it reflects a cultural discontent with modernism and a supposition that traditional styles are inherently good while modern styles are bad. The theory also provides a sense of special knowledge – the feeling of being among the few who know “the truth” about history that has been hidden from the masses. This can be empowering for believers, especially in a complex world where many feel they have little control over larger systems and institutions. What Do YOU Think Happened to Tartaria? The story of Tartaria represents a fascinating intersection of historical geography, conspiracy theory, and cultural psychology. While mainstream historians and the Russian Geographical Society have debunked the conspiracy theory as an extremist fantasy, its popularity continues to grow online. The region once known as Tartaria on historical maps compared to modern political boundaries Whether you see Tartaria as simply an outdated geographical term or believe there might be something to the theories of a hidden advanced civilization, the questions it raises about our understanding of history are thought-provoking. How much of our historical narrative is shaped by the perspectives and agendas of those who record it? What forgotten knowledge might be hiding in plain sight? Disclaimer: This article explores speculative theories about Tartaria and alternative historical narratives. The content presents both mainstream historical perspectives and conspiracy theories for informational purposes. Readers are encouraged to verify claims independently and approach alternative historical theories with critical thinking. Sources and Further Reading Library of Congress: “Tracking Tartary on Western Maps” – Historical analysis of the term’s usage on maps Russian Geographical Society: “The whole truth about Tartary” – Debunking of conspiracy claims Bloomberg: “Inside the ‘Tartarian Empire,’ the QAnon of Architecture” by Zach Mortice Journal of Historical Geography: Studies on the historical usage of “Tartary” as a geographical designation Skeptoid Podcast #765: “Tartaria and the Mud Flood” by Brian Dunning