Urartu-artifacts unearthed in Armenia

In Gegharkunik province of Armenia, a mausoleum and artifacts dating back to Urartu (Kingdom of Van) era have been found. According to Public Radio of Armenia, Urartu-era artifacts unearthed in eastern Armenian are cleaned and restored at the labs of the Service for the Protection of Historical Environment and Cultural Museum Reservations. Archaeologists Prof. Ashot Piliposyan says that the artifacts are really exceptional and dates back to the 8th century B.C. 

Prof. Ashot Piliposyan said, “We were informed from the Gavar Geological Museum that villagers had accidentally uncovered archaeological material during construction work. A mausoleum dating back to the Urartian times was found, when digging a grave in Gavar’s Hatsarat district.” The Service stated that there are several special objects, including a jug-cup, an ancient clay bawl, two large agate spherical beads and they are unique in form and production method. After being cleaned and restored , the artifacts will be added to the Urartu exhibition at Metsamor. Prof. Piliposyan says, “There are clay pots, pieces of crockery we had never found before.” 

Also, a large amount of animal remains have been discovered. The studies reveal that at least five people had been buried in the mausoleum.