Kingdom of Tabal Ancient City

Tabal Kingdom Ancient City, also known briefly as the Tabal Ancient City, is located at the summit of Göllüdağ, an extinct volcano within the boundaries of Çiftlik district in Niğde province. Situated at an elevation of 2,172 meters above sea level, this site is also a volcanic cone featuring a crater lake. Göllüdağ lies southwest of the villages of Gölcük and Kömürcü. Its volcanic structure and natural features, together with the ancient city, enhance the region’s tourism potential.

Historical Background

Tabal is one of the Late Hittite city-states established in Anatolia following the collapse of the Hittite Empire in the 12th century BCE. During this period, the Kingdom of Tabal emerged as a powerful local principality centered in what is today Niğde and its surroundings. The settlement at Göllüdağ, dated to the 8th and 7th centuries BCE, is recognized as one of the major city-states of the Tabal region.

Archaeological Discoveries and Excavations

The ancient city was first accidentally discovered by local villagers 88 years ago. The first scientific excavations were initiated in 1934 by Professor Dr. Remzi Oğuz Arık and continued between 1968 and 1969 under the direction of Burhan Tezcan. After a long interval, excavations were resumed between 1992 and 1996 under the supervision of the Niğde Museum Directorate, with the participation of Professor Dr. Wulf Schirmer from the German Archaeological Institute. To date, archaeological work has been conducted in three distinct phases.

Urban Architecture and Structures

The Tabal Ancient City was constructed in the architectural style characteristic of the Late Hittite period. The city is entirely enclosed by outer walls. Within these walls lies a complex of structures believed to include a palace and a temple. This sacred and administrative center was further protected by a second inner wall. Archaeological findings indicate that the buildings were arranged according to a symmetrical plan, but the city was abandoned before its construction was completed.

Sculptures and Symbolic Artifacts

Among the most significant finds from the ancient city are sculptural works. Particularly notable is the two-headed lion statue, currently on display at the Niğde Museum. At the city’s entrance, sphinx reliefs appear alongside lion figures and lion-headed doorposts and pedestals at both outer and inner gates. A total of 16 lion statues have been identified. For this reason, the Tabal Ancient City is also popularly known as the “Lion City”.

A lion figure discovered after excavations. (District Governorship of Çiftlik)

Abandonment and Aftermath

The presence of numerous unfinished or unworked artifacts recovered during excavations indicates that the construction of the ancient city was halted midway. However, the reason why the population abandoned the city remains uncertain. Possible causes include a sudden war, a natural disaster, or another unknown factor.

Tourism Potential and Conservation Efforts

Göllüdağ and the Tabal Ancient City situated upon it possess significant potential as a major tourism destination due to their natural and cultural values. The site’s location atop an extinct volcano, its crater lake views, and its stone structures are expected to contribute substantially to archaeotourism. Relevant institutions are actively engaged in conservation and promotion initiatives.