Arzen, Archaeological site in Batman Province, Turkey
Arzen is an archaeological site on a plateau in Batman Province that contains ancient walls, foundations, and structures from multiple historical periods. The site spreads across a larger area and shows the remains of fortifications and residential sections.
The settlement served as the capital of the Arzanene district during Late Antiquity and functioned as a strategic fortress for the Sasanians in Roman-Persian conflicts. It played an important role as a fortified center during these power struggles between major empires.
The excavations reveal a mix of Armenian, Syriac, and Persian influences visible in the artifacts and building styles uncovered on the site. These different cultural marks appear throughout the foundations and structures found here.
The site requires sturdy walking shoes and sun protection because the terrain has uneven surfaces and open areas without shade. It helps to visit early in the day to avoid intense heat and see the surfaces better.
Researchers have identified this location as a possible site of Tigranocerta, the ancient Armenian capital founded by King Tigranes the Great. This identification is based on archaeological evidence and ancient historical sources.
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