The Ancient City of Doliche or Duluk Doliche, also known as Duluk, is an ancient city with a remarkable historical background dating back to 6000 B.C. Archaeological discoveries indicate that stone tools were crafted in workshops on the southern slopes of the city during the Lower Palaeolithic Period. These tools, referred to by archaeologists as "dülükien," are considered strong evidence that Dülük ranks among the earliest human settlements on Earth. Throughout history, Doliche has served as an important spiritual hub, reflecting its connection to three major belief systems: it was known as Dülük in the era of the Hittite Empire, associated with the deity Teshup during the Hellenistic Period, and worshipped as the sacred site of Jupiter Dolikhenos in the Roman Period. The ruins of the city bear witness to its prominence as a revered Roman sanctuary dedicated to Jupiter Dolikhenos. In addition to its role as a spiritual center tied to various faiths—such as Duluk during the Hittite Empire Period, Teshup in the Hellenistic Period, and Jupiter Dolikhenos in the Roman Period—Duluk was also an important site for the ancient belief system of Mithraism. Two major underground temples dedicated to this faith were discovered in Duluk. The rituals practiced within these sanctuaries included the symbolic slaying of a bull, regarded as the mightiest creature in nature, and the consumption of its blood as a means to gain strength from the deity. A carved relief illustrating the bull sacrifice, known as the Tauroktoni, is displayed in a niche near the mihrab area of one of these underground temples, which features two significant chambers within the central Mithraeum of Doliche. The faith of Mithras remains one of the most mysterious ancient religions, as its teachings were shared only with a small circle of devoted followers. Due to the absence of original scriptures and the exclusive nature of its membership, very limited written records exist to shed light on the full scope of its doctrines. If you have any questions or need further information about The Ancient City of Doliche or Duluk, feel free to get in touch with us at [email protected] or simply reach out to us on WhatsApp. We’ll get back to you as quickly as we can.