Under the historical foundation of the ancient Zerzevan Castle in Diyarbakir Province, southeastern Turkey, scientists have made an astonishing discovery.
According to Ancient Origins, a massive excavation that has been ongoing for 9 years has revealed a multi-layered underground city, sprawling over an area of up to 10 million square meters and capable of housing thousands of people, hidden beneath the ancient Zerzevan ruins.
Ruins of the ancient Zerzevan Castle – (Photo: AA).
The Daily Sabah reported that the excavation also uncovered fortifications in the form of walls and observation towers surrounding the ancient castle. Meanwhile, the mysterious city beneath the castle contains a church and a water channel that extends for at least several miles.
Additionally, archaeologists unearthed an Assyrian seal carved on a stone block dating back 3 millennia.
One of the “entrances to the underground world” of the ancient castle – (Photo: ANCIENT ORIGINS).
The ancient Zerzevan Castle, also known as the Samachi Fortress, has a rich and diverse historical background. Initially, this castle was established as a border outpost of the Roman Empire in the 3rd century AD.
It was inherited, enhanced, and modified over the centuries, primarily constructed between the 3rd and 5th centuries. Although the castle is now in ruins, it still attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, despite the visitor center not being fully completed.
During peacetime, around 1,500 people, including soldiers and civilians, lived within the castle walls. However, during periods of conflict, the population within the enclosure sometimes swelled to 10,000, including civilians seeking refuge.
This may explain the emergence of the mysterious underground city, which was intricately renovated.
Approximately 6 residential areas have been uncovered around the castle, within its walls. Archaeologists estimate there could be up to 100 such residential areas hidden beneath the surface.
According to NPR, the excavation is ongoing, with hopes of clarifying this unique mode of habitation. The findings include administrative buildings and astonishing weapon storages.
“The area we are excavating inside the castle walls is 57,000 square meters. It is a vast area, and outside it could extend up to 10 million square meters.” – said Aytac Coskun, a Turkish archaeologist and head of the excavation.
