Archaeologists working at the historic Malazgirt site in eastern Türkiye have unearthed nearly 2,000 artifacts since 2020. These discoveries offer new insights into the region's extensive past and the location of the pivotal 1071 Battle of Manzikert. The "Malazgirt Battlefield Identification, Historical and Archaeological Survey Project" made these finds possible, supported by the Culture and Tourism Ministry's General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museums, in partnership with Muş Alparslan University.
A multidisciplinary team, including archaeologists, anthropologists, art historians, and historians, has been conducting excavations. Their work focuses on Afşin, approximately 7.5 kilometers (4.7 miles) from Malazgirt, at a site believed to be a Seljuk martyr cemetery. Muş Provincial Director of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Şengül confirmed that the battlefield survey, launched in its 6th year, combined with the Historic City of Malazgirt Excavation Project, now in its 2nd year, has yielded around 2,000 archaeological finds.
Historical Discoveries
Among the significant discoveries are Roman- and Byzantine-era coins, providing tangible links to earlier periods. Numerous arrowheads, spearheads, and other military-related metal objects were also uncovered during surface surveys. These items paint a clearer picture of the ancient conflicts that shaped the area. Excavations have also revealed a previously unknown structure within the castle's Inner Fortress, adding layers to the understanding of its defensive architecture.
Graves at the historic Muslim cemetery, known as the Arab Cemetery, have been scientifically documented and recorded. This meticulous work ensures that the historical record is preserved with precision. During the 2nd year of the excavation season, archaeologists uncovered another previously unknown room near the entrance of the Inner Fortress. At the nearby Arab Cemetery, seven graves underwent excavation and documentation using rigorous scientific methods.
Unearthing the Past
Şengül emphasized the crucial nature of these projects. They are vital both for identifying the exact battlefield where the Battle of Malazgirt was fought and for uncovering the historic urban fabric of the medieval settlement. The project's primary goal is to determine the precise location of the 1071 battle using scientific methods, uncover its archaeological traces, and better understand the historical development of the surrounding area.
The battlefield survey is led scientifically by professor Adnan Çevik of the History Department at Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University, under the supervision of the Ahlat Museum Directorate. Researchers have carried out extensive surveys across a broad area. This includes the town center of Malazgirt and the surrounding localities of Harabesor, Örenşar, Kanlıdere, Aydınlık, Afşin, Ziyarettepe, Aytaç Plain, Gezo Plain, and Çivi Plain, ensuring a comprehensive regional study.
Preserving Heritage
Excavations inside Malazgirt Castle are directed by Dr. Ahmet Oğuzhan Karaçetin of Muş Alparslan University, with permission and support from the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museums. Şengül noted that findings from both the Inner Fortress and the cemetery are helping researchers better understand Malazgirt during the medieval period. These insights are invaluable for historical scholarship.
The nearly 2,000 artifacts recovered so far are being preserved at a newly constructed excavation house, which is nearing completion. Officials plan to eventually display these finds both in Malazgirt and at the Muş Archaeology Museum. Şengül stated that the work extends beyond archaeological excavation, forming part of broader efforts to strengthen Malazgirt's role as a destination for history, culture, and tourism.
"Our main objective is to investigate the historical heritage extending from the 1071 Victory of Malazgirt to the present through scientific methods," Şengül said. "We will pass these findings on to future generations and strengthen public awareness of history." He added that research would continue to expand, with results shared with both the academic community and the public. Çevik also provided technical information about the ongoing archaeological investigations at the site.