Rare 3,500-year-old Hittite Linen Started to be Exhibited in Çorum Museum

The Çorum Museum is now showcasing a remarkable 3,500-year-old Hittite linen fabric, which was discovered during archaeological excavations at the Şapinuva site in the Ortaköy district of Çorum in 1995. This extraordinary artifact sheds light on the textile technology and cultural heritage of the Hittite civilization.

This invaluable piece of linen, unearthed under the guidance of Prof. Dr. Mustafa Süel and Prof. Dr. Aygül Süel, stands out as a rare find in Turkey’s archaeological landscape. Through meticulous examinations conducted at Middle East Technical University and Ankara University, researchers confirmed that the fabric dates back to the 14th century BC. After being carefully stored in the Çorum Museum’s depot for many years, this historical treasure has finally been revealed to the public.

The fabric, measuring 3×3 centimeters, is attached to a pottery fragment approximately 24×20 centimeters in size. It was unveiled during a special event organized by the Çorum Business Women’s Association (İŞKAD). Çorum Governor Ali Çalgan highlighted the significance of this discovery, stating that it has been preserved with great care for three decades and is now being presented to the public for the first time. He remarked, “This 3,500-year-old artifact will greatly enhance the visibility of our city and our country. We take immense pride in the fact that the Hittite civilization was capable of producing such sophisticated items.”

Prof. Dr. Aygül Süel, who directed the excavation, shared her emotional response to the discovery: “This piece of linen, woven around 4,000 years ago, was found serendipitously. It was preserved in an oxygen-free environment, allowing it to survive through the ages. Thanks to the diligent efforts of Mustafa Hodja and our team, we were able to uncover this precious artifact. I am thrilled to be part of this launch today.”

This discovery highlights the advanced textile techniques and craftsmanship of the Hittites. The durability and processing of linen provide valuable insights into the economic and cultural dynamics of Hittite society. The historical piece, now on display at the Çorum Museum, invites visitors to embark on a journey back in time, connecting them with a rich heritage that spans millennia.