2,800 Year-Old Wheat, Sesame Seeds Found In Archeological Dig

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Archaeologists are planning to make 2,800-year-old seeds found in a dig in Çavuştepe Castle in Van’s Gürpınar district grow again.

According to a report by Akeofili, the excavation works, led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rafet Çavuşoğlu, continue the in the castle, which was built by Urartian King, Sardur II in Gürpınar district, 25km away from the city.

“From a historical point of view, these findings provide important clues about which grain goods were produced in the Urartian Era. [...] The wheat and sesame seeds found in the storage rooms have been elaborately put into packages and we will examine these in a laboratory environment”, Çavuşoğlu said.

Noting that the castle’s favourable location on the caravan route leading to Northwest Iran made it easier for researchers to find access to important information on trade,  Çavuşoğlu added that the researchers have discovered three grain storage rooms in the castle.

Prospects of success

“If the seeds have carbonized on their own, we have a better chance of making them grow. We will determine the most suitable method to make the seeds grow depending on the results of the laboratory analyses.  

“But if they have carbonized as a result of fire, then it will be very difficult to make them grow”.

More finds expected

“We assume that there might also be some grape seeds among the leftover grains discovered in the excavation.

“Because grapes are among the most important fruits in ancient history. They used to be both dried and used in wine production as well. (EKN/DG)