A remarkable archaeological discovery has emerged in Midyat, in southeastern Turkey near the Syrian border, where an ancient underground city known as Matiate has been uncovered.
Over 50 Rooms Excavated
According to Digi24 this sprawling subterranean complex, is believed to be one of the largest of its kind, is revealing a rich tapestry of history and culture.
So far, over 50 rooms have been excavated, connected by a 120-meter-long tunnel adorned with enigmatic drawings, including a stylized horse, eight-pointed stars, trees, and an adult's hand—curious artworks placed high on the walls.
The excavation, which began unexpectedly in June 2020, uncovered the city when workers stumbled upon a wooden door behind which lay a narrow tunnel.
Mervan Yavuz, director of Midyat’s conservation department, suggests that ancient inhabitants sought refuge here from adverse weather, enemies, predators, and diseases. The initial entry into the city featured a low, round vault, requiring visitors to stoop to enter.
A Refuge And Residence
Historical evidence suggests that Matiate was a sanctuary for various religious communities, including pagans, Jews, Christians, and Muslims. It was first noted on an Assyrian stele dating back to the first millennium B.C. The underground city's use extended well beyond the Assyrian conquest, serving as a refuge and residence for different groups over centuries.
The underground city also boasts rooms likely used for various functions, such as catacombs, granaries, and wine storage, with artifacts like bronze and ceramic items discovered.
Gani Tarkan, a former museum director, highlights that even after Christianity became the Byzantine Empire's official religion, the city continued to be used as living space.
You can see pictures of the excavations here,
