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Uncovering archaeological significance of Turang Tappeh
The first excavations at Turang Tappeh were conducted in 1878 CE by the archaeologist Clement Augustus de Bode during the Qajar era and the reign of Muhammad Shah. Significant discoveries from these archaeological expeditions included tools, cups, containers, and weapons made of gold, silver, and bronze, indicating that agriculture, irrigation systems, and pottery-making were prevalent in ancient times at this site.
In 1889 CE, Jean-Jacques de Morgan further explored Turang Tappeh, uncovering copper and bronze daggers, small stone statues, and additional historical artifacts. Subsequent excavations in 1922 CE, led by American archaeologist Frederick R. Wulsin, identified three distinct historical layers within the site. The first layer, at a depth of six meters, revealed a cemetery with red and gray pottery and bronze vessels, dating to the Iron Age. The second layer, found at eight meters deep, and the third layer contained various pottery vessels and clay statues. Further excavations in the 1940s and 50s by French archaeologist Jean Deshayes defined nine periods of cultural life at Turang Tappeh.
Covering an area of 30 hectares and reaching a height of 30 meters, Turang Tappeh features a prominent brick structure measuring 13 meters in length and eight meters in width, of which only the first floor remains today. This ancient hill was once the site of a Sassanid fortress built over the clay structure, which served as an ancient temple known as Chahar Taqi or “Four Vaults.” Some scholars believe it may be part of the ancient wall of Hyrcania (Gorgan), designed to protect the Sassanid Empire against invasions from groups such as the Chionitae, Hephthalites, and Kidarites.
Furthermore, traces of the Achaemenid and Parthian empires have also been discovered in the region. Among these findings is a seal inscribed with the name Khosroshad Pirouz, which may be linked to the lost city of Roshan Pirouz. Evidence of the Ilkhanid period has also been uncovered, adding to the site’s rich historical significance.