Ancient Settlement of Gebekly

The ancient settlement of Gebekly, dating back to the early Parthian period, is located 32 kilometers from Gyaur-Kala. This ancient town emerged adjacent to the abandoned settlement of ancient Margians, within the fortified walls of Antioch. The site is confined to the area enclosed by its defensive walls, with a large mound at the center formed from the remnants of several structures. Excavations have revealed a significant building from the late Parthian period, with residential and ceremonial rooms occupying the central area, while a system of peripheral corridors surrounds it. The southern wall housed the only gate, and there are no traces of additional buildings around the fortress.

Archaeological studies have identified four major periods in the history of Gebekly:

1. The initial construction of the site, which dates back to before the 1st century CE.
2. The Parthian period (1st-2nd centuries CE).
3. The early Sassanid period (3rd century CE).
4. The 4th-century layer, identified by coins from the reign of Sassanid king Shapur II (309-379 CE) and Kushanshah Varahran II (late 4th century CE).

Among the artifacts uncovered are bronze and iron arrowheads, bronze rings, ceramic spindle whorls, clay cores, and more. A particularly fascinating discovery includes terracotta figurines, which offer a glimpse into the artistic expressions of the time. However, the most sensational find at Gebekly is a collection of over 1,000 Parthian bullae—clay objects of various shapes impressed with seals. These bullae were used to seal documents, bales, and containers of goods. They are invaluable for studying the economy, law, trade, and administrative organization of the Parthian period. The analysis of the scenes and iconography on these bullae provides significant insights into ancient art and ideology.

The site of Gebekly offers a rich tapestry of history, with each layer uncovering new aspects of the Parthian and early Sassanid civilizations. The discoveries made here continue to shed light on the complex cultural and economic life of this ancient region.