Zerzevan Castle and Mithraeum (Temple of Mithras) Zerzevan, also known as Samachi Castle, is an archaeological site recently uncovered in southeastern Turkey. Official excavations started in 2014. The site sits atop a hill that overlooks the surrounding landscape. Located about 45 km (28 mi) from the provincial center, it held a strategic position at the easternmost frontier of the Roman Empire, where a substantial Roman garrison guarded a vital trade route. Zerzevan holds historical importance for the Parthian and Sasanian civilizations as well. Its origins trace back to the Assyrian period around the 9th century BC, when it lay along the Persian Royal Road. Archaeological findings reveal that Roman soldiers occupied the area in the 3rd century AD, with civilian settlements atop the hill supporting an estimated population of about 1200. The site remained inhabited until the 6th century during Byzantine rule, but it was destroyed during the Arab invasions in 639 AD and was never rebuilt, preserving the ancient structures under centuries of earth. Visitors exploring the upper slopes of the hill will observe that some sections of the fortification walls reached heights of 12 meters and stretched for 1.2 kilometers. The walkways can be narrow, and while some tower remains are still standing, visitors should exercise caution due to the risk of steep drops. Zerzevan, an archaeological site newly explored in southeastern Turkey, has been under official excavation since 2014. Positioned on a hilltop about 45 km (28 mi) from the provincial center, this site served as a vital location at the easternmost frontier of the Roman Empire, strategically overseeing an important trade route. Nevertheless, Zerzevan's historical significance extends far beyond the Roman era, with archaeological findings indicating its presence on the Persian Royal Road as early as the 9th century BC. The ruins at Zerzevan reveal its past role as a Roman military base, featuring cisterns of varying sizes for water storage, canals designed to channel water from nearby springs during drought periods, and different kinds of tombs dating from the 3rd to 7th centuries AD. The site also includes the remains of a 6th-century Christian church, an underground church dating back to 300 AD, and several stone altars. Among the most remarkable structures at Zerzevan is the Mithraeum, carved into the northern section of the walls. Its entrance displays inscriptions and symbolic carvings, while the eastern wall is adorned with columns featuring niches. One of the larger niches depicts the bull sacrifice scene, including traces of paint on a belt above two surrounding columns. The eastern wall also showcases the Mithras crown beam motif. In a smaller niche, visitors can observe a bull blood bowl and basin connected by a channel through the wall, suggesting water was used in Mithraic rituals. The ceiling features four symmetrical hooks for hanging animals during ceremonies, likely utilized in bull sacrifice rites. In 2020, Zerzevan was included on UNESCO's Tentative List of World Heritage sites, attracting many visitors fascinated by the Mystery Cult of Mithras. If you have any questions or inquiries regarding Zerzevan Castle and Mithraeum, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or simply message us via Whatsapp, and we will reply as soon as possible.