Mysterious Grave Found in Gohar Tepe

17 October 2005

(CHN) -- Discovery of a 3000-year-old skeleton with a bronze strap and a semicircle bronze horseshoe from under its head has raised a lot of questions for archaeologists about such an unknown burial method.

Recent excavations in the historical site of Gohar Tepe led to the discovery of a burial form different from the previous discovered ones. Archaeologists believe that the articles inside this grave are indication of changes and new eras in the life of the people of Gohar Tepe 3000 years ago.

“The latest excavations in the historical site of Gohar Tepe led to the discovery of a skeleton with a bronze strap underneath its head and a semicircle bronze horseshoe form which were never found previously in the other graves of the historical site,” says Ali Mahforouzi, head of the excavation team of Gohar Tepe of Mazandaran.

According to Mahforouzi, the usage of the articles is not yet known; moreover, a trace of cloth has been found on the bronze sheet, necessitating more studies in order to find proper answers to raised questions.

The skeleton is wearing a dagger at its waist, on which after some 3500 years, traces of wood and cloth can be seen. Archaeologists believe that the burial of this corpse alongside its personal belongings, buried while wearing its dress must have been done according to a special tradition. A bronze bracelet, a lapis bead necklace, and some delicate clay dishes were also found in the grave.

“We are not sure yet whether the corpse was a man or woman, because both women ornaments and weaponry have been found in the grave. Therefore, more anthropology studies are needed to determine whether the corpse was a man or woman,” says Mahforouzi.

Gohar Tepe, in Mazandaran province is one of the most important historical sites of Iran.
Evidence shows that from 7000 years ago to the first millenniums before Christ, a lot of people lived in the region, enjoying urban life structures since 5000 years ago; the discovery of architectural structures and graves in this region are evidence of continual life during the later centuries there.