A groundbreaking discovery in eastern Türkiye has shed light on a fascinating chapter of ancient history. In a rugged, mountainous region of Van’s Gürpınar district, a research team uncovered an ancient Urartian fortress that once stood high in the mountains at an elevation of 3,000 meters. This monumental discovery provides new insights into the sophisticated architectural, military, and cultural practices of the Urartians. Led by Professor Dr. Rafet Çavuşoğlu, head of the Archaeology Department at Van Yüzüncü Yıl University, the team included archaeologists, anthropologists, and art historians, all of whom conducted the excavation and surface survey with the support of Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The team’s extensive efforts revealed the remains of an ancient fortress, adding an important chapter to the understanding of the Urartian civilization.
The Fortress’ Strategic Importance and Design
Located in the Tirişin Plateau, the fortress stretches over 4 kilometers of stone walls and contains nearly 50 individual rooms. The sheer size of the structure, especially at such a high altitude, reflects the Urartians’ sophisticated approach to both defense and settlement. Professor Dr. Çavuşoğlu remarked, “Finding a 4-kilometer-long fortress wall and approximately 50 living spaces at such a high elevation was an extraordinary surprise. This area likely served not only as a defensive stronghold but also as a vital pastoral and residential zone.” The elevated location of the fortress offered significant strategic advantages, such as providing visibility over the surrounding landscape and making it easier to spot incoming threats. This unique position is typical of Urartian fortresses, which were often built on high ground for defensive purposes.
Beyond its military role, the fortress likely served as a hub for daily life and economic activities. The 50 rooms discovered by the team were not just living quarters, but also served as spaces for various essential functions—suggesting that the site was both a residential and commercial center for the Urartians. The discovery of artifacts like ceramic shards, millstones, and carved stones indicates that the site was used over a long period, transitioning from military defense to civilian habitation and pastoral practices.
Image credit: AA
Agricultural and Pastoral Significance
The Tirişin Plateau is not only strategically significant, but it is also rich in natural resources, such as fertile grazing lands and abundant water sources. These features made it an ideal location for ancient pastoralism, which was a primary livelihood for many ancient civilizations. The area’s natural resources likely played a pivotal role in the Urartians’ choice of this location for their fortress.
Professor Dr. Çavuşoğlu noted, “We believe this area was a hub for small livestock farming, which still continues today. The fortress provided both protection for the inhabitants and control over valuable highland resources.” The combination of a defensible position and access to vital resources ensured that the Urartian inhabitants could sustain themselves in a challenging environment. The agricultural importance of the area also makes it clear that this fortress played a crucial role in both the economic and strategic landscapes of ancient Anatolia.
The fact that the area is still used for small livestock farming today underscores the timeless utility of the region’s resources. This continuity between the ancient and modern uses of the land illustrates how the Urartians understood and adapted to their environment in ways that allowed them to thrive in such a remote, mountainous region.
The Role of the Urartians in Shaping the Region’s Landscape
The Urartians were known for their advanced military, engineering, and agricultural technologies. Their ability to build fortresses in difficult-to-reach locations speaks to their expertise in defense, while their innovations in water management and architecture reflect a deep understanding of their environment. The newly discovered fortress is a testament to their strategic foresight and their ability to maintain control over their territory.
The discovery of this fortress is part of a broader pattern seen in Urartian architecture. Many Urartian sites, such as the city of Tushpa (modern-day Van), are located on high ground, offering both military advantages and access to natural resources. The Urartians were also known for their impressive irrigation systems, which allowed them to harness water from mountain streams to support agriculture. This was a crucial factor in their ability to sustain large populations in such a challenging terrain.