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Forgotten Bronze Age power unearthed in Turkish fortress

Source: newscientist.com

TL;DR

Archaeologists uncovered a 2,800-year-old fortress in Turkey that hints at a forgotten Bronze Age power rivaling the Hittites.
The site features massive 200-metre-long walls and industrial-scale iron production, suggesting control over key trade routes.
This challenges the idea that only Hittites dominated central Anatolia, rewriting regional power dynamics.
Discoveries include weapons, jewellery and animal bones, pointing to a wealthy, militarised society.

The story at a glance

A little-known Bronze Age culture may have been a major power in central Turkey, based on a newly excavated fortress. Reported now after three years of digs revealing unprecedented scale and sophistication.

Key moments & milestones

3300-1200 BC: Late Bronze Age in Anatolia, dominated by Hittite Empire.
1400-1200 BC: Peak of mystery culture at Norşuntepe site near Elazığ.
2021: Excavations begin under Peter Törner and Turkish team.
2024: Key finds published, including 14-tonne gate and iron workshops.

Signature highlights

The fortress boasts 6-metre-high mud-brick walls stretching 200 metres, with a monumental 14-tonne gate - larger than many Hittite structures.
Evidence of advanced iron smelting on an industrial scale, with slag heaps indicating mass production centuries before widespread use.
Artefacts include bronze weapons, gold jewellery and bones from elite feasting on cattle and deer.
Strategic location on the Euphrates hints at control over vital trade in metals and goods.

Key quotes

"This is not a small local power - this is a major player." - Peter Törner, excavation leader.

"We have to rewrite the history books." - Hermann Parzinger, archaeologist.

Why it matters

This upends the Hittite-centric view of Bronze Age Anatolia, revealing a parallel empire that shaped iron technology and trade. It could explain the Bronze Age collapse through overlooked rivalries. Watch for DNA analysis and further digs to name this culture and map its full reach.