Kin of the elusive Kaska tribe uncovered within the ancient Hittite holy site of Nerik
The ongoing excavations at the Oymaağaç Mound in Samsun's Vezirköprü district have yielded significant findings, with the team led by Mehmet Ali Yılmaz entering its 20th season. The archaeological site is identified as the Hittites' sacred city, Nerik.
In a groundbreaking discovery, the Kaskas, a people mentioned in Hittite texts but rarely evidenced archaeologically, have been found in the excavations at the Oymaağaç Mound for the first time. The Kaskas were historically known as persistent enemies of the Hattians and later the Hittites, living in the mountainous regions to the north of Hittite territory. Their interactions with the Hittites are documented during the Bronze Age, especially relating to conflicts and incursions against Hittite lands.
The temple of the Storm God has been identified at the Oymaağaç Mound, confirming that this was indeed Nerik. The current phase of excavations has revealed significant remains from the Iron Age and the Middle Bronze Age. The Iron Age architecture uncovered at Oymaağaç Mound shows strong ties to the region's traditional building methods, combining wood, mudbrick, and stone.
The focus of recent years in the excavations at the Oymaağaç Mound has been on the mound's northwestern section. However, the new findings are spread across the entire site, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the ancient city.
The excavation team is seeking answers to questions such as when the settlement at Oymaağaç Mound first emerged. The new finds suggest the presence of the Kaskas at the Oymaağaç Mound, which may provide valuable insights into the early history of the city.
Yılmaz emphasized that the research could shed light not only on Nerik's role in Hittite religion but also on the cultural foundations that preceded it. The excavations at Oymaağaç Mound are part of the Culture and Tourism Ministry's "Heritage for the Future" project.
As the excavations continue, the team hopes to uncover more secrets about the ancient city of Nerik and the people who once called it home. The discoveries at Oymaağaç Mound are not just a glimpse into the past, but a testament to the rich history and culture of the region.
