The archaeological excavations carried out in the historical Çölemerik Castle, located on one of the high hills of Hakkari, aim to unearth the historical remains in the region. The excavations carried out in Çölemerik Castle, located in Dağgöl Neighborhood and where there is not enough information about the remains on its surface, are planned to be opened for tourism.
The excavation work, which was initiated with the permission of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, includes 4 archaeologists and a team of 16 people working under the chairmanship of the Van Museum Directorate. In the first stage, the aim is to unearth historical structures in the area where cleaning work is carried out and open the section for recreation and tourism activities.
During the visit, where Provincial Director of Culture and Tourism İdris Ağacanoğlu also provided information, Governor and Deputy Mayor Ali Çelik stated that Çölemerik Castle was used as a settlement in the past. Excavations have been initiated at the points determined as a result of research and georadar studies conducted in the castle.
Archaeologist Orhan Çetin from the Van Museum Directorate stated that Çölemerik Castle was used as a residence for the Hakkari Beys and that important findings regarding the castle’s past had been unearthed. Çetin stated that as the excavations progress, the area will be examined in more detail and will be converted into an archaeological park and opened to visitors.
