Prof. Dr. Refik Duru , who has been leading the activities with the sponsorship of the Union of Turkish Travel Agents (TURSAB), said, "neglect and natural conditions have caused Tilmenhoyuk to become unrecognizable."
"More glorious than Zeugma"
"Tilmenhoyuk is much more glorious than the antique city of Zeugma in the district of Nizip," Prof. Dr. Duru told.
"Tilmen, which is composed of an exterior and an interior castle, is a cultural asset in every regard. The walls are built of hewn stones. The castlem built with the chest wall technique, is just magnificent," he said.
Tilmenhoyuk, thought to have a diameter of 200-250 meters, a hill of 21 meters extending to the west, and a terrace of 150x100 meters, was found to consist of residential stages ranging from the Late Calcolitic Period to the Iron Ages (B.C. 3500-1000), during the excavations led by Prof. Dr. Bahadir Alkim.
Duru, gave the following information on excavations:
* The residential areas dating back to B.C. 2000s, have been determined to be local kingdom-princedom centers affiliated to the Kingdom of Aleppo, which was one of the most important kingdoms of that period.
* Some sections of the ramparts are covered with bulky stones, and some parts are found to be built with carefully cut basalt blocks.
* At the tumulus, which has a monumental appearance, there also is a palace complex. The palace is found in the center of the tumulus, and has been renovated at various times. The entrance to the palace is through a spectacular door. It is understood that within the palace, there are sections designated for formal and private uses. (NK/BB/EA/NM)
