A Contribution to the History and Paleobiology of Harput/Elazığ Türkiye and Its Surroundings

Authors:

DOI: 10.23880/aeoaj-16000258

Volume 8, Issue 1

Abstract

The brief history of the development of Harput and its surroundings is discussed. Harput, which also controls the Chalcolithic settlement areas, includes settlements comprising both the villages of the Altınova and Baskil regions. The rich mineral resources of the region attracted the attention of many neighbouring countries as early as the Neolithic period. This must have been the reason why Harput and its surroundings were subjected to numerous invasions throughout history. In addition, it was one of the most important centres for agricultural activities such as farming and livestock breeding in Eastern Anatolia since early times. The importance of Harput during this period and the reasons for its dominant position in the region it encompasses are well known. During this period, Harput was also an important military and commercial centre. In addition, the town is located on the most important road connection of the past era. For these and similar reasons, the city has attracted the attention of various powers in each era and has been the subject of various sieges. In the process, nearly fifty civilisations settled in the region. Surface and deep explorations of the important hills of the region, which are inundated by the Keban and Karakaya reservoirs, are also significant for the history of Harput. By analysing some of the data obtained from these excavations, an attempt has also been made to determine the palaeobiological values of the region. Important findings and opinions are presented with regard to the historical significance of Harput and the relief of Harput, which bears the traces of a lived culture.

Keywords: Harput; Keban and Karakaya rescue excavations; Palaeobiology of the Harput area; Harput relief

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