Archaeological Findings in Shapinuva
In Shapinuva, central Turkey, archaeologists have discovered animal remains in two symmetrical L-shaped rooms of a monumental Hittite building that dates back approximately 3400 years. The findings may indicate ritual sacrifices related to construction phases described in Hittite texts. However, the function of this building has not yet been established, and excavations are ongoing.
The first intriguing find is the skeleton of a decapitated young animal, possibly a lamb or a goat, which was placed on a stone-paved surface. The second find includes the skull of a large cattle, also positioned on a stone-paved surface in another room. The excavation leader, Onder Ipek from Hittite University, noted that the findings do not resemble typical food waste. He believes the intentional placement of the remains and the numerous construction phases may be linked to ritual practices described in Hittite sources.
Research and Ritual Practices
The structure was first identified during geophysical surveys in Shapinuva in 2024. Archaeologists began with excavating a trench measuring 5 by 5 meters, resulting in the exposure of approximately 20% of the building in the first season. During excavations in 2025 and 2026, researchers worked along the outer walls, revealing a larger portion of the building's plan. The team identified several phases of use or modification of this structure, which dates back to the 1380s BCE. During this period, Shapinuva held an important position in the Hittite world.
Hittite texts describe ritual practices associated with temples, festivals, and buildings that are built, renovated, or undergo ritual purification. Written sources mention:
- sheep,
- large cattle,
- goats and other animals,
which were used in sacrifices, along with drinks and offerings to the gods. A known foundation ritual combines sheep sacrifices with ritual formulas to protect the house from harmful forces. It was previously reported that a large storage complex, approximately 3800 years old, was discovered in Hattusa, providing new evidence of the economic life of the settlement before it became the capital of the Hittite Empire.
Excavations in Shapinuva continue to provide new information about the life and rituals of Hittite society, opening new horizons in the study of the archaeological heritage of this region. The discovered artifacts highlight the importance of ritual practices in Hittite culture and also open possibilities for further exploration of their architecture and social structures. Continued excavations may lead to new discoveries that will help understand not only the religious but also the economic aspects of life in this ancient society.
In addition to the intriguing animal remains found in Shapinuva, recent excavations in Turkey have unveiled a remarkable collection of ancient stone turtle carvings, dating back approximately 14,000 years. These discoveries highlight the rich archaeological heritage of the region and the diverse forms of ritualistic practices that have been uncovered over time. To learn more about these fascinating turtle carvings, visit this article.