Archaeologists from Van Yüzüncü Yıl University and the governorship of Turkey's Bitlis Province have made a significant discovery at the bottom of Lake Van, the largest lake in Turkey. They have uncovered the remains of a 3,000-year-old castle belonging to the Iron Age Armenian civilization, also known as the Kingdom of Van, Urartu, Ararat, and Armenia.
This underwater discovery is considered a breakthrough in the field of archaeology as it provides new insights into the history and culture of the ancient Armenian civilization that thrived in the region over 3,000 years ago. The underwater excavations were led by a team of divers who spent years exploring the lake and its surroundings before finally unearthing the well-preserved walls of the castle.
The lake itself is believed to have been formed by a volcanic eruption of Mount Nemrut near the province of Van. The current water level of the reservoir is about 150 meters higher than it was during the Iron Age, making the underwater exploration a challenging task. However, the team of experts persevered and finally uncovered the hidden fortress deep below the surface of the lake.
The castle's discovery sheds new light on the ancient Armenian civilization's military and architectural prowess, providing valuable information about their defensive strategies, engineering techniques, and construction materials. The well-preserved condition of the castle's walls indicates that the structure was built to withstand not only the elements but also potential attacks from enemies.
This is just one example of the importance of underwater archaeology, which provides new and exciting insights into the history of our planet. It is also a testament to the perseverance and dedication of the team of experts who spent years exploring the lake and finally unearthed this hidden treasure.
The discovery has generated significant interest among historians, archaeologists, and the general public alike, and it is hoped that further investigations will reveal even more about the ancient Armenian civilization and its contributions to the world's cultural heritage.
In conclusion, the 3,000-year-old fortification at the bottom of Turkey's largest lake is a remarkable find that sheds light on the ancient civilizations that once inhabited the region. The underwater excavations led by Van Yüzüncü Yıl University and the governorship of Turkey's eastern Bitlis Province have provided archaeologists with valuable insights into the Iron Age Armenian civilization, also known as the Kingdom of Van, Urartu, Ararat, and Armenia. The discovery of the well-preserved wall of the castle, thought to have been built by the Urartu civilization, is a testament to the advanced engineering and building skills of the ancient people who once lived in the region. This discovery is significant as it deepens our understanding of the region's history and provides new opportunities for further research and exploration.
