Unearthed relics from the Ottoman-Russian War unveil a forgotten battlefront in eastern Turkey.
Discovered Artifacts from the Ottoman-Russian War in Turkey's Bingöl Province
In the picturesque Şerafettin Mountains, situated around 2,700 meters above sea level, a significant discovery has been made. Ali Kus, a resident of Bingol, has uncovered a collection of artifacts from the Ottoman-Russian War, providing a tangible link to a bygone era[1].
The collection, now housed in a dedicated area next to the Azizan Martyrs' Memorial, includes a variety of items such as rifles, kukris, bullets, chest keys, helmets, buttons, and rifle stocks. These relics offer a unique glimpse into the technology and material culture of the war period, reflecting the day-to-day life of the soldiers who fought in this region[1].
Ali Kus's endeavour to gather these relics began around 10 years ago. Using an off-road vehicle, he traced old Russian military positions and uncovered weapons and gear left behind by soldiers[1]. Initially, Kus sold these war relics as a young boy to scrap dealers. However, as he grew older, his interest in preserving these historical artifacts for future generations grew[1].
Today, Kus displays his collection in the mountains where it was found, contributing to a better understanding of the human cost of war and the sacrifices made for the homeland[2]. Through this display, local children, including Kus's grandson, have gained a tangible connection to the past[3].
The site where the artifacts were discovered is now recognized as a protected area by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, ensuring the preservation of these historical relics for future generations[4]. Numerous soldier graves are present in the vicinity, further underscoring the area's historical weight[5].
This collection offers a rare insight into a chapter of history rarely covered in detail. Given that these findings surfaced only recently, they may prompt further archaeological interest and research in the region[1]. As of now, there is no detailed academic or historical analysis about the collection or its individual artifacts, indicating that reporting is primarily based on initial discovery and display[1].
[1] Anadolu Agency [2] Daily Sabah [3] Hürriyet Daily News [4] Bingöl Governorate [5] Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism
- The government of Turkiye has recognized the site of the Ottoman-Russian War artifact discovery in Bingöl Province's Şerafettin Mountains as a protected area, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
- Amidst the general news and politics of the region, the discovery of war relics from the Ottoman-Russian War in Turkey hasprovided a unique opportunity for understanding the human cost of war, particularly for local children.
- In light of the recent discovery, the Turkish economy may benefit from increased tourism, as history buffs and enthusiasts flock to see the collection in Bingöl Province.
- With Russia as a key player in war-and-conflicts during that era, the discovery's potential significance extends beyond the borders of Turkiye, with implications for the study of that time period's global political landscape.
