In an excavation work in Harput province of Elazığ, a 165-years-old Armenian inscription is found. It is thought to be a tombstone and deciphering works continue.
In an excavation
work in Harput province of Elazığ, a 165-years-old Armenian
inscription is found. It is thought to be a tombstone and deciphering
works continue. After the work is completed, the inscription
will be protected by Elazığ Museum.
Elazığ Municapality has been carrying out restoration work in Church of Virgin Mary (also known as the Red Church). Before the restoration starts, an excavation work was started in the church.
There could be other tombstones
During the excavation, a tablet dated 1851 was found. Art historian Elmon Hançer stated that it looks like a tombstone and reminds of classical ones. Saying that the writing on the tablet is in old style and can be read with a study, Hançer stated that there could be other tombstones.
Hançer also emphasized the importance of Harput: “For ages, Harput had been a very important settlement. In fact, it is still important; many people migrate to Harput. It means a lot both for Armenians and missionaries. Level of education was always high in Harput. In famous Euphrates College founded by American missionaries, Armenian teacher were working and the students were also Armenian. Though it didn't survive, it left a great heritage.”
