Turkey announces discovery 3,500-year-old archaeological tablet

(MENAFN) On Monday, Turkey revealed a remarkable archaeological discovery: a 3,500-year-old tablet unearthed during excavation and restoration work at Tell Atchana, also known as Alalakh, located in the Reyhanli region of Hatay province. This significant find emerged from ongoing restoration operations that were initiated in response to the severe earthquakes that struck the area in February 2023.

The newly discovered tablet, which dates back to the 15th century BC, is notable for its use of Akkadian cuneiform writing. This ancient script provides crucial insights into the administrative and commercial practices of the time. According to Turkish Minister of Culture and Tourism Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, who shared the news via a post on the X platform, the preliminary analysis of the tablet's inscriptions indicates that it contains detailed records related to large-scale furniture purchases.

This discovery is not only a valuable addition to the historical record but also illuminates aspects of the economic and social life of ancient Alalakh. The detailed documentation of furniture transactions offers a unique perspective on the material culture and trade practices of the period, enriching our understanding of the ancient civilization that once thrived in this region. The tablet's findings underscore the significance of continued archaeological work in uncovering and preserving the rich tapestry of human history.

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