Unclear whether the structure is a mosque or a temple
Researchers discovered a 600-year-old place of worship in a firewood storage in Central Anatolia. The structure, built between 1337 and 1399, features a stone arch. The original function of the structure, whether temple or mosque, remains unknown. However, the pristine condition of the structure and artefacts inside makes this discovery extremely significant.
A centuries-old mystery was revealed during the cleaning of a firewood storage facility in Türkiye's Central Anatolian region. Researchers from a Turkish university have discovered a 600-year-old place of worship here. According to Al Arabiya, researchers from the Department of Art History of Hacı Bektaş Veli University were in the area surveying the site in the village, which houses the 16th-century Taşkın Paşa Mosque and a school.
During the field surveys, a prayer room carved into the rock, featuring a stone arch, was identified. However, the religion and community to which this prayer room belonged remain unknown.
The stone arch, a typical construction technique of the time, serves as evidence that the structure dates back 600 years. According to a press release from Savaş Maraşlı, a member of the research team, there are no historical or literary sources about the temple, but the artefacts discovered inside clearly show that it was built between 1337 and 1399.
"There have been remains of a mosque and a madrasah in this area since the 1960s, but nobody was aware of this place of worship. This structure has been discovered for the first time, and it is in pristine condition," said Maraşlı.
Well-preserved due to being hidden underground
The place of worship was found to be in good condition. Noting that the structure was likely concealed and therefore preserved for centuries, Maraşlı said, "The carvings, materials, and techniques used in its construction are similar to those of the Seljuk period."
After experts unveil all the details, the discovery is expected to provide insight into the region's past and is regarded as a significant contribution to Türkiye's historical heritage.