Urkesh, Archaeological tell in Al-Hasakah, Syria
Urkesh is an archaeological mound in Al-Hasakah province, Syria, that covers a large area and rises above the surrounding plain with layers from several eras. The slope reveals remnants of walls, courtyards and building elements from very early times.
The first settlers arrived here several thousand years ago and gradually built sanctuaries and residences. Excavations in the 20th century brought to light structures that experienced different phases of rule.
The name appears in written records from Mesopotamia and refers to a settlement that people used for ceremonies and governance. Visitors can observe traces of seals and statues that show how artisans worked.
The site sits in a flat region in northeastern Syria, close to smaller towns. Anyone coming here should be prepared for unpaved paths and open terrain.
A deep stone shaft leads down into the earth and once served ritual actions in which people wanted to communicate with hidden powers. The construction shows refined building techniques from a time that had no modern tools.
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