The Yeri City archaeological site dates back to the 7th millennium BCE, making it one of the oldest continuous settlements in the Ardabil region. The site reveals multiple historical layers, offering a rich glimpse into the cultural and social evolution of the area over millennia.
Situated about 65 kilometers from Ardabil near the Qarasu River, Yeri spans roughly 400 hectares and is divided into three main sections:
A military fortress
A temple complex
The Qosha Tappeh area, renowned for its intricately carved stone figures
The fortress and temple are believed to date to the 2nd century BCE, while Qosha Tappeh’s origins stretch as far back as the 7th millennium BCE.
At Qosha Tappeh, archaeologists discovered a fascinating series of stone statues depicting stylized humans, complete with detailed hands, faces, hairstyles, and swords. Interestingly, all but one face lacks a mouth- symbolizing a rule of silence, where only one individual, identified as a woman by her hair clips, was granted the power of speech.
The statues vary in height from 35 cm to 265 cm, reflecting social hierarchy and cultural beliefs. Even more remarkably, the arrangement of these figures mirrors the Pleiades constellation, indicating sophisticated astronomical knowledge.
Visitors to the temple would perform a ritual cleansing at a nearby spring and show reverence by bowing at the entrance gate. Alongside these figures, metal artifacts and pottery shards have been uncovered, highlighting the site’s archaeological significance.
The Yeri City archaeological site is open year-round without restrictions. The summer months provide the most favorable conditions for exploring the vast site in detail.
For further historical and archaeological insights into Shahr‑e Yeri (the City of the Mouthless), including its ancient stone statues, temple complex, and fortress, see this detailed Tehran Times article: Shahr‑e Yeri – City of the Mouthless.
