Arslantepe Mound

Arslantepe Mound: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Welcome! In this guide, we will delve into the fascinating world of Arslantepe Mound, a remarkable archaeological site located in modern-day Turkey. This ancient mound, also known as Tutush Hüyük or Carpentras, offers a unique glimpse into the rich history and culture of Anatolia spanning over 5000 years.

Table of Contents

  1. Location
  2. History
    • Early History (Chalcolithic Period)
    • Hittite Period
    • Urartian Period
    • Assyrian Period
    • Persian, Greek and Roman Periods
    • Byzantine and Seljuk Periods
  3. Archaeological Discoveries
  4. Visiting Arslantepe Mound
  5. Facts & Fun
  6. References

1. Location

Arslantepe Mound is situated in the southeastern district of Malatya, Turkey, near the town of Kızıltepe. It stands atop a hill overlooking the Euphrates River Valley and offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.

2. History

Early History (Chalcolithic Period)

The earliest known human activities at Arslantepe date back to the Chalcolithic period, around 6000 BCE. Settlers built an impressive settlement on top of the mound, leaving behind numerous artifacts that provide valuable insights into their daily lives.

Hittite Period

During the Hittite period (circa 1700–1200 BCE), Arslantepe became part of the kingdom of Kizzuwatna. The site was fortified, and several defensive structures were constructed to protect against potential threats.

Urartian Period

In the 9th century BCE, the Urartians conquered Arslantepe. They established a new settlement, which flourished for centuries. The Urartian artifacts found at the site offer invaluable insights into this enigmatic civilization’s culture and history.

Assyrian Period

In 738 BCE, the Assyrians captured Arslantepe, marking the beginning of a new era for the site. The city was renamed Carpentras by the Assyrians, who established a significant administrative center here.

Persian, Greek and Roman Periods

After the fall of the Assyrian Empire, Arslantepe passed through the hands of various empires, including the Persians, Greeks, and Romans. During these periods, the site continued to be an important center for trade and administration.

Byzantine and Seljuk Periods

In the Byzantine era (330–1204 CE), Arslantepe was fortified once again to protect against invasions from neighboring territories. The Seljuks took control of the site in the 11th century, and it remained under their rule until the Ottoman Empire gained power.

3. Archaeological Discoveries

Archaeological excavations at Arslantepe have unearthed a wealth of artifacts, including pottery, jewelry, and architectural remains. Some notable discoveries include:

  • A royal palace complex dating back to the Urartian period
  • A series of defensive walls and towers from the Hittite, Assyrian, and Byzantine periods
  • Richly decorated frescoes depicting scenes from daily life, mythology, and religion
  • A massive storage complex used for grain and other goods

4. Visiting Arslantepe Mound

If you’re planning a trip to Turkey, don’t miss the opportunity to visit Arslantepe Mound! To get there, take a bus or car from Malatya to Kızıltepe. From Kızıltepe, it’s a short drive or walk to the site.

The best time to visit is during the spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), when the weather is pleasant. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the site, and don’t forget your camera!

5. Facts & Fun

  • Arslantepe Mound spans over 10 hectares and stands approximately 25 meters tall.
  • The name “Arslantepe” translates to “Lion Hill” in Turkish, reflecting the many lions carved into the site’s architecture.
  • The site is open for visitors daily except on Mondays. Admission is free.
  • There are several other archaeological sites nearby, such as Hasankeyf and Nemrut Dağı, that are worth exploring during your trip.

6. References

For more information about Arslantepe Mound, consult these references:

  • Bittel, K. (1970). Malatya: Die Ausgrabungen in Malatya und Karahöyük. Wiesbaden: Steiner.
  • Meliksetyan, G. A. (2013). The Urartian period at Carchemish and Arslantepe in the Light of Recent Discoveries. In S. E. Algaze, R. D. Michel, & K. M. Richardson (Eds.), New Perspectives on the Archaeology of Turkey and the Ancient Near East (pp. 149-163). London: Routledge.
  • Ozdoğan, F. (2005). The Hittite period at Arslantepe. In J. M. Sass-Klaassen & A. E. B. Uytterhoeven (Eds.), The Archaeology of Anatolia (pp. 317-332). Leiden: Brill.