Definition: Urartu is the ancient name for the region called Ararat in the Judeo-Christian bible, located in parts of what are now the modern day countries of Turkey, Armenia and Iran. The main capital of Urartu was at Tushpa, on Lake Van in Turkey, established by King Sarduri I about 830 BC. The society built a series of fortresses in this rugged terrain, of large cut stone blocks. Other public works include temples, roads, and a massive irrigation system for their farmlands, including the Canal of Semiramis, built in the 9th century AD and still in use today. While Urartu withstood an assault by the Assyrian King Sargon, by the 6th century BC, they fell to the Medes.
Archaeological evidence for Urartu was first discovered at Van in 1826 by F.E. Schulz, who identified cuneiform inscriptions cut into the walls. In the late 19th century, A.H. Sayce deciphered the inscriptions and excavations at Topprakale were conducted by the British Museum.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
Archaeological evidence for Urartu was first discovered at Van in 1826 by F.E. Schulz, who identified cuneiform inscriptions cut into the walls. In the late 19th century, A.H. Sayce deciphered the inscriptions and excavations at Topprakale were conducted by the British Museum.
This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.
Examples: Tushpa (Turkey), Van (Turkey), Cavustepe, Anztaf, Korzut Kale, Topprakale
