Elazığ Governor Numan Hatipoğlu announced that the ongoing archaeological excavations at Tadım Castle and Tadım Mound are revealing new clues on the region’s ancient history. The project, led by the Elazığ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum, has brought to the surface a wealth of artifacts dating back to the Late Chalcolithic and Early Bronze Age, offering valuable insights into the area’s millennia-old heritage.
Remarkable Discoveries: 6,000-Year-Old Sacred Hearths and Pottery
Among the most significant finds are:
- Twelve Karaz pottery vessels from 4000–3000 BCE, a hallmark of the Early Bronze Age.
- A painted jar featuring a mountain goat motif dating back to 3200 BCE.
- Two rare bull-adorned sacred hearths from 4000–3000 BCE, thought to have been used in religious ceremonies..
Archaeologists estimate the sacred hearths to be around 6,000 years old, offering rare clues about the region’s spiritual beliefs and daily life. During this era, fire was considered sacred, and these hearths were likely used for ceremonial purposes, possibly symbolizing the family unit.
Layers of History: Multi-Cultural Settlement
Excavations have revealed evidence of continuous settlement spanning several millennia. The site contains six distinct cultural layers, showcasing remnants from various periods, including the:
- Neolithic Period
- Late Chalcolithic Period
- Early, Middle, and Late Bronze Ages
- Early and Late Iron Ages
- Eastern Roman (Byzantine), Seljuk, and Ottoman periods
In addition, architectural remains, such as wall fragments and ceramic shards, confirm the region’s long-standing role as a significant hub of habitation and cultural exchange.
Restoration of Elazığ’s Ancient Artifacts Underway
Archaeologists sent 31 artifacts from the excavations to the Diyarbakır Restoration and Conservation Regional Laboratory for detailed restoration and conservation. The team plans to exhibit the most notable pieces—the 6,000-year-old sacred hearths—at the Elazığ Archaeology and Ethnography Museum after completing the restoration process, giving the public a chance to experience these remarkable relics firsthand
Excavations to Resume Soon
Looking ahead, the Elazığ Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, responsible for overseeing the project, plans to resume excavations in the coming days, provided the weather conditions remain favorable. Archaeologists are eager to continue their work, uncovering further findings that will expand the region’s historical narrative.
Boosting Cultural Heritage and Tourism
Governor Hatipoğlu emphasized that these discoveries not only enhance the understanding of Anatolia’s ancient history but also highlight Elazığ’s archaeological significance. The discoveries are expected to boost the region’s tourism appeal, drawing history enthusiasts and researchers from around the world.
“We will continue to protect and reveal the rich cultural heritage of our province,” Governor Hatipoğlu stated, underscoring the importance of ongoing archaeological efforts in preserving and promoting Elazığ’s ancient legacy.
