In the Turkish province of Diyarbakir (in historical Western Armenia), scientists discovered a unique underground temple dedicated to the ancient deity Mithra. The structure is estimated to have an age of 1,700 years.
According to the Turkish “Hurriyet”, the temple was discovered near the historic Zerzevan castle during archaeological excavations conducted by the staff of the country’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism since 2014.
During the excavations, an underground temple called Mithraeum, as well as a water channel, water collecting wells, secret passages, and shelters were discovered.
Mithraism was widespread in the pre-Christian Roman Empire. In addition, Mithra was revered by many other nations, including Armenians. Armenian King Trdat, addressing Emperor Nero (1st century AD), mentioned that he honored Mithra. Mithra is also one of the most frequently mentioned heroes in Armenian mythology.
Pendant (Amulet) in the Shape of a Human Hand | 7th–6th centuries BC | Yeghvard…
Introduction The duduk (Armenian: դուդուկ)—traditionally known as tsiranapogh (ծիրանափող, “apricot-wood pipe”)—is one of the most…
Perched on the rocky peninsula of Lake Sevan, the medieval monastery of Sevanavank preserves one…
Reconsidering the Language and Sacred Heritage of Urartu in Armenian Historical Thought For more than…
Among the earliest known states of the Armenian Highlands, few are as historically important as…
The medieval monastery of Dadivank is one of the most important spiritual and artistic centers…