Historic Site of Yeri City
The historic site of Yeri City, an extraordinary archaeological wonder, bears testament to a profound cultural heritage dating back to ancient times.
History
The roots of the Yeri City archaeological site extend deep into the past, reaching back to the seventh millennium BCE. The site’s remarkable feature lies in the harmonious interweaving of diverse historical periods, forming a true treasure trove of historical layers.
Description
Situated just 65 kilometers from Ardabil, adjacent to the Qarasu River, the archaeological site of Yeri City stands as a precious legacy left by the ancient inhabitants of this region. Encompassing a sprawling area of 400 hectares, the site is composed of three distinct segments: a military fortress, a temple, and Qosha Tappeh. Notable features include settlements and a cemetery. The fortress and temple both trace their origins back to the 2nd century BCE, while Qosha Tappeh’s history dates even further to the 7th century BCE.
Of particular intrigue are the finely carved stones discovered at Qosha Tappeh. These intricately detailed stone figures depict stylized human forms with hands, faces, elaborate hairstyles, and swords. A captivating detail emerges: the carved faces intriguingly lack mouths, with the exception of a solitary figure, symbolizing the exclusive privilege of speech granted to only one individual—a woman. This absence of mouths signifies adherence to the temple’s rule of silence. Remarkably, the female figures are adorned with hair clips, a unique identifier. Moreover, these statues vary in height from 35 cm to 265 cm, indicative of the social hierarchy and beliefs of the ancient populace.
These enigmatic stone figures stand in a configuration that mirrors the Pleiades constellation, showcasing remarkable attention to detail and planning. Evidently, before entering the city’s temple, a cleansing ritual at a nearby spring was obligatory. Additionally, individuals would bow while passing through the entrance gate as a gesture of reverence and humility. Alongside the stone figures, the archaeological site yields a collection of metal artifacts and pottery fragments, adding to its historical significance.
Visiting Hours
The opportunity to explore this remarkable archaeological site knows no bounds, granting visitors unrestricted access. Yet, the summer months provide the optimal conditions for an enriching visit to this captivating historic site, allowing for an immersive journey through its remarkable history.
