Qishlaq Excavations Reveal Complex Prehistoric Society in Zagros

Date: 12 October 2025 - 21:50

News ID: ۱۴۴۵۵۶

TEHRAN -- The region of Bijar, situated within the Zagros Mountains, has long been recognized as a cradle of early human settlement in prehistoric and historic periods.
Recent archaeological endeavors at the Qishlaq mound—a key site located near the Talvar Dam—have brought to light remarkable evidence of a flourishing civilization dating back over seven millennia.
Since the initial rescue excavations commenced in 2010, multiple seasons of methodical investigation have been conducted under the direction of Dr. Mehnaaz Sharifian. The conclusion of the second excavation season has yielded an abundance of significant finds that shed new light on the cultural and economic complexity of this ancient community.
Among the discoveries are well-preserved mudbrick architectural remains, an array of ceramic vessels, figurines of animals, as well as counting tokens and small seals that suggest the presence of an organized system of property ownership and economic management.
These artifacts collectively attest to a sophisticated social structure and a dynamic economy in place during the 5th millennium BCE.
Analyses using petrographic and X-ray techniques reveal that some of the pottery was not locally produced but imported from prominent cultural centers such as Mesopotamia, Lake Van, and Khuzestan. This interregional exchange underscores Qishlaq’s role as a hub within extensive trade networks, reflecting vibrant cultural interactions across the ancient Near East.
The use of gypsum plaster in construction and decoration further illustrates the advanced technical knowledge possessed by the inhabitants, as well as their capacity to exploit regional natural resources.
Subsistence strategies at Qishlaq appear to have been diverse, incorporating agriculture, pastoralism, fishing, and hunting. The proximity to the Talvar River provided a reliable water source, crucial for sustaining continuous occupation through varying environmental conditions.
However, evidence points to a decline in settlement activity by the late first millennium BCE, potentially due to environmental stresses such as minor seismic events and population movements.
The impending inundation threat posed by the Talvar Dam reservoir has heightened the urgency for continued rescue archaeology to preserve this invaluable site. As Dr. Sharifian emphasizes, safeguarding Qishlaq is not only vital for academic research but also for conserving the rich historical heritage of the Kurdistan region.
Increased public awareness and institutional support are essential to ensure ongoing excavation and conservation efforts. The discoveries at Qishlaq provide a compelling narrative of human resilience, cultural exchange, and social development in the ancient Zagros, enriching our broader understanding of prehistoric civilizations.