Treasures of the past: a unique 3500-year-old artifact is on display for the first time in Turkey

For the first time, the Chorum Museum has presented a unique artifact - a Hittite linen cloth created in the 14th century BC. Thanks to the oxygen-free environment, this rare exhibit has been preserved to this day.

The linen cloth fragment, which is more than 3,500 years old, was first opened to the public after it was discovered during excavations at the Sapinova archaeological site in Turkey. This artifact is an invaluable testament to ancient textile technologies and gives an idea of the skill of Hittite weavers, Arkonews reports .

Sapinova was one of the key cities of the Hittite Empire in the Bronze Age. The modern location of this ancient center is Ortaköy, in the province of Çorum. The city, which was located about 70 kilometers from the capital Hattusa, played an important administrative and religious role.

In addition, Sapinuwa served as a military center and periodically became the residence of Hittite rulers. Archaeological research at the site began in 1989 when a local farmer accidentally discovered two cuneiform tablets. This discovery was the impetus for further excavations, which revealed many important historical artifacts.

The Hittite linen cloth was found in 1995 during archaeological work led by Professor Mustafa Züel and Professor Aigül Züel. This is one of the few textile samples that has survived from that period in modern Turkey. Scientists from the Middle East Technical University and the University of Ankara confirmed its origin from the 14th century BC. Since then, the fabric has been carefully preserved in the Chorum Museum.

The relic, which measures approximately 3×3 cm and is preserved on a 24×20 cm ceramic fragment, was first presented to the public at a special event organized by the Chorum Business Women's Association.

The Governor of Chorum, Ali Chalgan, emphasized the uniqueness of the find and noted the importance of the many years of efforts to preserve it. He emphasized that this artifact is a testament to the high level of craftsmanship of the Hittite civilization and can be an impetus for new research, as well as attract more visitors to the region.

Professor Aygül Züel, who has become a key figure in the preservation of the fabric, thanked everyone who contributed to the excavation and conservation of this artifact. She emphasized that by keeping the artifact in an oxygen-free environment, it managed to survive for millennia, which makes its discovery extremely important.

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