Unique rock tomb discovered by chance in the courtyard of a house in southeastern Türkiye

Şanlıurfa, located in southeastern Türkiye, has added a new mysterious page to its historical record. A 2300-year-old rock tomb, discovered by chance in the courtyard of a house, sheds light on the city’s thousands of years of history. This significant discovery, announced by Şanlıurfa Governor Hasan Şıldak, once again revealed the region’s rich cultural heritage.

During investigations carried out in the Eyyübiye District as part of the Cultural Inventory Project, a rock tomb hidden in the courtyard of a house was brought to light. The tomb, which attracts attention with its single-room structure, is like a time capsule with the reliefs on its walls. The reclining male figure on his left arm, winged female reliefs, and other mysterious motifs offer clues about the beliefs and lifestyle of the period.

The reliefs decorating the tomb’s walls are like a window opening to the world of 2300 years ago. Human figures, animal depictions, mythological scenes, and plant motifs reflect the social, religious, and artistic structure of the period. These reliefs not only have aesthetic value but also provide important information about the beliefs, traditions, and daily lives of the people of that era.

The rock tombs in Şanlıurfa are generally dated to the Late Hittite and Roman periods. However, the exact date of this latest discovery has not yet been determined. Deciphering the damaged inscription painted with red ochre on the tomb’s entrance door and detailed examinations to be carried out will help to illuminate the tomb’s secrets.

Şanlıurfa is like an open-air museum with its thousands of years of history. The city, which is home to many historical and cultural values from Göbekli Tepe to Harran, from Balıklıgöl to Şanlıurfa Castle, is now preparing to fascinate its visitors with this unique rock tomb emerging from a house courtyard.