Exciting Discoveries Unveiled at Inönü Cave in Turkey
Archaeologists working at Inönü Cave in the Ereğli district of Zonguldak, Turkey, have made a significant discovery that sheds light on the mysterious Kaska people, an ancient Anatolian community mentioned in Hittite texts.
New Evidence of the Elusive Kaska People
Hamza Ekmen, an associate professor at Bülent Ecevit University, revealed that findings from the cave's third layer, dating back to the Late Bronze Age, may provide the first archaeological evidence of the Kaska people.
Excavation Journey at Inönü Cave
The excavation at Inönü Cave commenced in 2017 under the leadership of Ereğli Museum Director Ahmet Mercan, with a diverse international team of 25 experts, including Ekmen.
Signs of Continuous Human Habitation
Inönü Cave, considered the oldest settlement in the western Black Sea region, has uncovered evidence of human presence spanning 6,500 years to the Chalcolithic Age.
Clashes Between Hittites and Kaskas
The Hittites, a dominant civilization from 1650 to 1200 B.C., frequently clashed with the Kaskas, who inhabited the mountainous northern regions of Hittite territory.
The Enigma of the Kaska People
Despite decades of research, concrete evidence of Kaska habitation has remained elusive, making them a focal point of interest for scholars studying Hittite archaeology.
Breakthrough Discoveries
Artifacts unearthed from Inönü Cave's third layer exhibit similarities to Hittite objects but hint at a distinct cultural identity, providing valuable insights into the lost Kaska community.
Compelling Clues Found in Artifacts
Among the discoveries are seal stamps resembling Hittite designs, a dagger similar to those found in Hittite cities, wooden platforms possibly used for living or storage, and various metal, clay, and bone objects.
Unlocking the Past
Ekmen believes that the recent findings at Inönü Cave mark a significant step in unraveling the history of the enigmatic Kaska people, offering a solid foundation for future research.
Continued Exploration and Preservation Efforts
Excavations at Inönü Cave are still ongoing, with a focus on preserving the site's historical importance for further study and understanding of ancient Anatolian civilizations.
