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©The Archaeological Settlements of Turkey - TAY Project
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Karakaya Kalesi |
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Type:
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Fortress |
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Altitude:
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m |
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Region:
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Eastern Anatolia |
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Province:
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Erzincan |
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District:
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Merkez |
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Village:
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Karakaya |
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Investigation Method:
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Survey |
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Period:
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Middle Iron Age |
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| It was founded on a steep rock, which is 400 m high above the plain level, 3 km from the Karakaya Subdistrict, 25 km from Erzincan. The brook running from the north passes through eastern part of the fortress and flows towards the plain. Illicit diggings yielded some architectural elements in certain sections of the fortress. To the northeast is a water tunnel with rock steps. Being damaged as a result of illicit diggings, particularly the upper steps of the water tunnel cannot be used. The steps facilitated access to the brook and the springs. The bedrock to the south of the starting section of the steps was carved to compose a second pathway. The total number of steps are 45. The final three steps are under the ground at present. The average heightof the steps varies from 25 to 50 cm, and the width from 1.10 to 1.90 m. The height of the total 45 steps is approximately 30 m above the ground level. The location of the fortress is very suitable for defence. It is hard to date the fortress and the rock steps. Further surveys may contribute to make conclusions. Remains of the ancient irrigation facilities can be observed 3-4 km southwest of the fortress and near the Karakaya Subdistrict. Proximity of the fortress to Altintepe, suitability for defence, bedrock masonry give important leads about the status and history of the fortress. Although it is steep and difficult to access, it has been heavily destroyed by the treasure hunters. |
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