Turkish archaeologists have discovered a cave with rock carvings two kilometers northwest of the 3,500-year-old ancient city of Alinda. The dating of the latter made it possible to rewrite the history of this important center of antiquity, which now dates back at least 7000 years.
According to the Hurriyet Daily News, a cave with ancient images was discovered in the Karpuzlu region, located in the western province of Aydin. Research has shown that the cave paintings date back to the fifth millennium BC. Until now, it was believed that the proud Alinda arose no earlier than 3500 years ago. However, the images found prove that man appeared here much earlier.
“Until now, we have dated the ancient city of Alinda around 1400 BC,” says Umut Tunzer, director of the provincial department of culture and tourism. man appeared here at least 7000 years ago. ”
We add that the cave was surveyed by a team of archaeologists led by Associate Professor Murat Chekilmez. She discovered wall paintings that resemble human figures. They have yet to be identified, but at the moment archaeologists believe that four scenes with female figures and two scenes with images of men are depicted on the walls of the cave.
The city of Alinda in antiquity initially performed defensive functions – it was a well-fortified fortress on an important trade route. He had a very large agora, that is, the central market square, which was also used for meetings. It is known that at one time it was the largest shopping center in Anatolia. Olives, figs and olive oil produced here were sold throughout the Hellenistic world.
