Ancient rock-cut tombs unearthed during construction in Türkiye

Rock-cut tombs found in Hatay, Türkiye during construction, December 16, 2024. (IHA Photo)

Rock-cut tombs found in Hatay, Türkiye during construction, December 16, 2024. (IHA Photo)

During the excavation of a building foundation in Arsuz, Hatay, workers stumbled upon ancient rock-cut tomb chambers. The find has sparked great interest among locals and archaeologists alike.

Rock-cut tomb chambers revealed in Pirinclik

The discovery occurred in the Pirinclik district, where construction teams unearthed the historic tomb chambers while preparing the building’s foundation.

Upon notification, local gendarmerie forces quickly secured the site with safety tape to prevent unauthorized access.

Artifacts delivered to museum authorities

Archaeological teams from the local museum were promptly dispatched to the site to begin a detailed examination of the tomb chambers. Ceramic vessels recovered from the tomb were transported to the museum for further study and preservation.

HATAY'DA YÜRÜTÜLEN İNŞAAT ÇALIŞMALARINDA BİNA TEMELİNDE TARİHİ KAYA MEZAR ODALARI ORTAYA ÇIKTI. MEZARDAN ÇIKARILAN SERAMİK KAPLAR EKİPLER TARAFINDAN MÜZEYE NAKLEDİLDİ. (OGÜN ASLAN/HATAY-İHA)Hatay'da yürütülen inşaat çalışmalarında bina temeli kazısı sırasında tarihi kaya mezar odaları bulundu. Mezardan çıkan seramik kaplar ekipler tarafından müze yetkililerine teslim edildi." alt="HATAY'DA YÜRÜTÜLEN INSAAT ÇALISMALARINDA BINA TEMELINDE TARIHI KAYA MEZAR ODALARI ORTAYA ÇIKTI. MEZARDAN ÇIKARILAN SERAMIK KAPLAR EKIPLER TARAFINDAN MÜZEYE NAKLEDILDI. (OGÜN ASLAN/HATAY-IHA) Hatay'da yürütülen insaat çalismalarinda bina temeli kazisi sirasinda tarihi kaya mezar odalari bulundu. Mezardan çikan seramik kaplar ekipler tarafindan müze yetkililerine teslim edildi.">

Terracotta sarcophagus under excavation

In addition to the ceramic artifacts, a terracotta sarcophagus was found within the tomb. Excavation efforts are ongoing to safely remove the sarcophagus for transport to the museum.

The discovery offers valuable insights into ancient burial practices in the region.

Curious onlookers flock to scene

The discovery has drawn considerable attention from the local community, with residents gathering near the excavation site to observe the archaeological efforts. Their excitement underscores the significance of this historical find in Türkiye.

The unearthed rock-cut tombs in Hatay represent an exciting addition to Türkiye's rich archaeological heritage. As excavation and research continue, these findings could shed light on the region's ancient history and cultural practices.

December 17, 2024 11:03 AM GMT+03:00