ERBIL, Kurdistan Region — Two weeks after its discovery, researchers have determined that a new archeological site in Duhok dates back more than 1,500 years.

Dr. Hassan Qasim, head of the Duhok Heritage Directorate revealed archaeologists' preliminary findings for the site, describing it as a "very important" piece of Iraqi heritage.

"This is one of the most outstanding archaeological sites dating back to Mesopotamian civilization," Qasim said, adding the excavation work was carried out in coordination between their heritage directorate and the Kurdistan Archaeology Organization.

It is located in the center of Simel district’s town of Fayda, west of Duhok city, a strategic geographic area that has been important throughout history, “connecting the east to the west,” Qasim said. 

Ten days of excavation work have revealed that the site was used to build irrigation systems and water pipes. A kiln was also discovered. Qasim said they found 53 pieces. “It dates back more than 1,500 years,” but more testing will be done in a lab, he said. 

The site was discovered by someone planting trees. “While planting, some pipes appeared. He later informed security agencies and then we came to start our follow ups and work,” said Qasim.

According to statistics produced by Duhok’s archeology directorate, there are 456 archeological sites in the province and 4,000 artifacts preserved in the Duhok museum.

Photos: Shallaw Qaradaghi