Remains of a 1500 years old church with 46 tombs unearthed during excavations in Diyarbakır

During archaeological excavations in the Kulp district of Diyarbakır, the remains of a church containing 46 tombs were unearthed. It is estimated that this 1500-year-old church is one of the oldest Byzantine churches in Diyarbakır.

Following the discovery of coins dating back to the period of Byzantine Emperor Anastasius I in different areas of Inkaya Mahallesi in Diyarbakır, archaeological excavations were initiated by the Diyarbakır Museum Directorate in the same area in 2021, with the participation of a total of 35 experts.

During the excavations, various artifacts such as coins, lamps, columns, and bases were found in the area, where the work intensified, remnants of a structure were identified. The structure with its external walls revealed was determined to be a church, and during the excavations inside the church, tombs scattered throughout the different areas of the structure were found.

“46 TOMBS WERE FOUND IN THE CHURCH”

The Acting Director of the Diyarbakır Museum, stated that they had started excavation work in 2021 with the permission of the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museums.

He mentioned that they had not previously considered the possibility of a church in the area and said, “This year, it became clear during the excavation work that this is a Byzantine church. Our work here accelerated. The church was likely used in the 5th, 6th, and 7th centuries, then it suffered damage and was used as a cemetery until the 13th century. There are 46 tombs in the church, belonging to various individuals including adults, children, women, and men. The tombs are spread throughout the entire church.” (SÖZCÜ)