Hittite and Late Hittite Products from Gaziantep Disctrict in Louvre Museum

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Gaziantep has been one of the most significant centres in the world since antiquity and it is an important region with regard to ancient history. Islahiye Plain located at the foot of Amanos Mountains is a substantial part of this region. The Sedir Mountains (Hamanu) are known to have existed even in the Sumerian era, partially falls on this territory. Akkad kings Sargon of Akkad and Naram-Sin also took an interest in the Sedir Mountains; not only a vital passage to Çukurova and Central Anatolia but also rich in resources. Located in the mountain chain, Islahiye Plain is part of an important and fertile geography reaching to Egypt. This plain, still a valuable agriculture and stock-breeding resource, has been selected as a settlement by peoples throughout history, often resulting in conflict. Karasu River (Saluara/Saluwara) in the plain, springing from the land around Tilmen Mound, and lush forests of Amanos and Kurt Mountains have attracted peoples from past to present. Surface explorations and archaeological excavations have been held in Gaziantep and its vicinity since 1878. Islahiye caught France s attention in early 20th century, during occupation with archaeological artworks. Three sculptures subject to this study which were discovered in Zincirli were unfortunately taken to France. These sculptures can still be seen in Louvre Museum.

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Louvre Museum , Islahiye Plain , Sam’al , Yesemek , Sphinx

Journal Of Graduate School Of Social Sciences

184

Journal Of Graduate School Of Social Sciences