Kurgan No. 2 of Sariyokhush Valley
Location: Jeyranchol, “Keshikchidagh” Valley of Kurgans
Discovery Date: June 15, 2021 – July 30, 2021
Period: Transition from the Middle Bronze Age to the Late Bronze Age
Kurgan No. 2 is located approximately 20 meters northeast of Kurgan No. 1, with a total diameter of about 18 meters. In the summer of 2021, rescue and research excavations were carried out by archaeologist Parviz Gasimov (PhD in History, Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology of ANAS). Upon removing the stone cover, a burial chamber measuring 6 meters in length and 2 meters in width was discovered, extending from southwest to northeast and covered with large stone slabs. The chamber was divided into two functional sections. The southwestern part contained an altar featuring 12 black-polished ceramic vessels decorated with chevron and “nail-shaped” patterns, alongside the remains of sacrificed cattle. Traces of a wooden partition (made of nettle tree/Celtis) were observed between the altar and the main burial area.
The Burial Platform: It is believed that a high-status individual was buried on a wooden platform in the northeastern part of the chamber, surrounded by wooden logs. Cylindrical Seal: A standout find made of steatite stone, displaying stylistic similarities with Mitanni-Hurrian art traditions. This artifact is crucial for studying the cultural ties between the South Caucasus and the Ancient Near East. Weaponry: A 43 cm bronze sword, a bronze scabbard end, and 10 arrowheads (6 obsidian, 4 flint) were recovered. The arrowheads were found near the knee area, where a quiver was likely placed. Ceramics: A total of 13 black-polished vessels were found. Notably, a unique jar with a lid was discovered specifically within the main burial area, likely used for ritual purposes or food storage. Jewelry: Beads made of red agate and faience paste were found near the neck area of the skeleton.
The complex structure and rich inventory date the kurgan to approximately the 16th–15th centuries BC, indicating the burial of an individual with high social status.
Coğrafi koordinatlar: 41°24’02.0″N 45°24’12.5″E
