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Carchemish
36.8297° N, 38.0150° E
About
Carchemish ( KAR-kəm-ish or kar-KEE-mish), also spelled Karkemish (Turkish: Karkamış), was an important ancient capital in the northern part of the region of Syria. At times during its history the city was independent, but it was also part of the Mitanni, Hittite and Neo-Assyrian Empires. Today it is on the frontier between Turkey and Syria. It was the location of an important battle, about 605 BC, between the Babylonians and Egyptians, mentioned in the Bible (Jer. 46:2, 2 Chron. 35:20). Modern neighbouring cities are Karkamış in Turkey and Jarabulus in Syria (also Djerablus, Jerablus, Jarablos, Jarâblos).
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Early Bronze cist tombs
c. 2400 BCE
Middle Bronze documents and rulers
c. 1800 BCE
Siege mentioning (Hittite activity)
1620s BCE
Battle of Carchemish
c. 605 BCE
Park opening to public
13 July 2019
Identification proposed by Skene
1874
Identification confirmed by George Smith
1876
Early excavations (Hogarth et al.)
1911–1914
Final early campaign
1920
Military mining period
1956–1998
Mine clearing completed
February 2011
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Storage Structures
Defensive Structures
Military Installations
Water Management Features
Public and Civic Structures
Burial and Funerary Structures
Religious and Ritual Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Transportation and Communication Structures
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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