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Keyword: aratta

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  • Jiroft: The Mysterious Rival of Mesopotamia and the Dawn of an Ancient Civilization

    06/19/2025 8:25:19 AM PDT · by SunkenCiv · 15 replies
    Arkeonews ^ | 24 March 2025 | Leman Altuntas
    Archaeologist Youssof Majidzadeh proposed in 2003 that the civilization discovered in Jiroft could be the legendary Aratta, mentioned in Sumerian poetry for its wealth. However, this theory lacked solid historical evidence and faced criticism from the academic community. Other experts suggested that, due to references in Mesopotamian texts about conflicts with a powerful Iranian state, this kingdom might be the Marhashi Kingdom.The analysis of the iconography from Jiroft revealed striking similarities with Mesopotamian traditions, hinting at a possible cultural connection. Depictions of mythological creatures like bulls and eagles evoked Sumerian myths, such as the shepherd king Etana. Speculations also arose...