Ongoing Projects

Objective : To conduct research and rescue work in the historical and archaeological settlement of Hasankeyf which will remain under the waters of Ilisu Dam.

Scope : Identification of all cultural properties in the site including architectural structures and small finds; relief; topographical, geological and geo-technical works; mapping; excavations to unearth different cultural layers and corresponding cultural assets; measures for conservation; transfer of moveable cultural properties; and relevant documentation and publication works.

Present State : Excavation and rescue work at the site had started in 1991 upon a protocol signed by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and GAP Administration. However, due to extraordinary situation reigning in the area, no progress could be achieved until 1998. Excavation and rescue work was re-started in 1998 and significant data about the history and plan of the antic settlement were obtained as a result. Upon the permission of the Council of Ministers for the further conduct of work at the site, the original protocol dated 1991 was phased out and the parties acted a new protocol of cooperation.

Archaeological excavation period in 2006, with the preliminary studies, started on 1 April 2006 and finished on 15.10.2006 with completion of scaling and photography of excavation and rescue areas. The technical studies such as documentation of cultural assets, urgent renovation and consolidation projects are completed at the end of December 2006.

With the participation of the instructors from different universities, 34 students and totally 186 workers and craftsmen realized the excavation and rescue studies in 2006.

These studies are realized in these forms: Excavation (old graveyard, 4 villas in Kasimiye region, Big Palace, Imam Abdullah Zaviye, Bridge Foot Structures, Khan, SSb (Molla Halil) Mosque, 5 drilling studies, Environmental Design and Basic Renovation Studies (Soil discharge from İnner Castle and cave cleaning, cleaning of the excavation area, and basic renovations of the other areas). Laboratory Studies (Ceramics, metal subjects), Other Studies (Documentation, video and photography, relief, and evaluation of inscriptions and land x-ray studies).

Objective : To protect Elet location in Acırlı settlement which is regarded as sacred by many cultures throughout the history and to facilitate tourism in the area.

Scope : Creation of an area in the historical site where unique cultural characteristics can be maintained.

Present State : The Urban Design Project was completed and approved by the Council for the Protection of Cultural and Natural Properties. Researching fund still continues.