Archaeological excavations at the Rashkan Fortress in Rey, located south of Tehran, have uncovered evidence of a Late Bronze Age settlement dating back to 1900–1500 BC.
This find, the first of its kind in the region, offers groundbreaking insights into the historical narrative of Rey, an ancient city with over 8,000 years of documented human settlement, as reported by
Tehran Times, a partner of TV BRICS.
The research team unearthed a two-metre-thick cultural layer containing grey pottery shards beneath Islamic-era deposits. These artefacts, once scattered on the fortress’s slopes, now confirm the existence of a thriving Bronze Age settlement.
Spanning at least one kilometre and covering several hectares, the site reveals a vibrant 400-year presence during the Late Bronze Age. This period reflects a significant phase in the city’s evolution, highlighting its role as a cultural and urban centre long before the Islamic era, the source claims.
The findings come after a 17-year pause in excavations at Rashkan Fortress, during which archaeologists focused on defining its boundaries and proposing preservation measures. The unexpected discovery of Bronze Age remains underscores the importance of protecting Rey’s archaeological treasures.
The findings also illuminate Rey’s strategic role in the central Iranian plateau’s historical narrative, offering fresh perspectives on its prehistoric legacy. Further excavations are planned to explore the extent of the settlement and uncover more details about its cultural and technological advancements.
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