REVIEWING THE ANTHROPOMORPHIC STELAE: PEOPLE IN IRON AGE MONUMENT FROM SOUTH CAUCASUS

Abstract

Anthropomorphic stelae and the associated archaeological findings represent some of the most significant advancements discovered during the archaeological excavation of the Iron Age monument in East Armenia (Artsakh), particularly in the Nor Karmiravan region.

Throughout the excavations carried out in the vicinity of the anthropomorphic stelae in the area of the village of Nor Karmiravan, Martakert region (located in the East of Armenia) during 2016-2018, our team documented a diverse array of archaeological, anthropogenic, and archeozoological materials. Among these findings were rectangular, flat longitudinal slabs, which describe anthropomorphs by their dimensional and sculptural processing, alongside the stelae themselves.

This paper endeavors to present the results of the excavations at the Nor Karmiravan monument and analyze the Iron Age people's societal attitudes and motivations towards these stone monuments.