Tehran, 23 June 2007 (CHN Foreign Desk)— Following the discovery of burial rites belong to 3000 to 6000 years ago in a cemetery behind Gelabar Dam, in Zanjan province, north west of Iran, archeological excavations in this site came into new stage. In all the 4 graves which have been discovered in this site earthen vessels in red or grey which are typical of this age have been found intact.

 

 “Following the archeological excavations in this prehistoric site, and after removing architectural layers, 4 burials belonging to 6000-year ago were discovered. It is believed that probably all skeleton found in these graves belong to children,” told CHN, Abulfazl Ali, head of archeological team working behind Gelabar Dam.

 

According to him based on traditions of people living in prehistoric period these burials have been done without putting any gifts in the graves and children were buried in the floor of the houses.”

 

A cemetery belongs to Iron Age I (1550-1250BC) have also been discovered, announcing this news, Ali told CHN: “More than 4 graves have been discovered in this cemetery which in all of them earthen vessels in red or grey have been found intact.”

 

He further added: “Although this site has been cultivated by farmers, bronze relics including a dagger was unearthed intact.”

 

Based on his remarks noticeable burial rites belonging to 3500 and 6000 years ago have been discovered behind Gelabar Dam.

 

“Along with this site, archeological excavations on Parthian- Islamic fortress behind Gelabar Dam still is underway and parts of its architectural structures have been revealed,” Ali said.

 

Gelabar Dam which has been established on a river with the same name was inundated recently without getting the approval of Iran Cultural Heritage and Tourism Organization (ICHTO).

 

 

Ladan M. Sadeghioon

foreigndesk@chn.ir