In 62 BCE, King Antiochus I Theos of Commagene from the Armenian Orontid dynasty constructed a monumental tomb-sanctuary on the summit of Mount Nemrut. This grand tomb, surrounded by colossal statues standing 8 to 9 meters tall, is a testament to the architectural and artistic prowess of the ancient kingdom of Commagene.
The centerpiece of the tomb is a tumulus, a mound of small stones, positioned at the mountain’s peak. The tumulus stands at 49.8 meters high and spans 150 meters at its base. Beneath this mound lies the burial chamber of Antiochus I of Commagene (69—38 BCE).
The rocky summit, on which the tomb is located, features large terraces on three sides. Two of these terraces are adorned with five majestic seated statues, each standing 8 meters tall. At the center of these statues is a figure of Zeus, flanked by the personification of “Commagene” and King Antiochus on either side, with Apollo and Hercules at the ends.
The site was extensively studied by German archaeologists Otto Puchstein and Karl Humann in 1882 and 1883. In 1987, the archaeological monuments atop Mount Nemrut were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The monuments of Mount Nemrut also make an appearance in one of the episodes of the film “Samsara” (2011).
Mount Nemrut’s tomb of Antiochus I Theos remains an iconic symbol of the ancient kingdom of Commagene, attracting scholars and visitors alike to marvel at its historical and artistic significance.
Artatsolum
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