Archaeologists in the Karkemish region of southern Turkey have unearthed the foundations of a 2,700-year-old temple dedicated to the Mountain Goddess Kubaba. The site features two massive basalt lion statues guarding the entrance, both of which retain traces of original black and red paint. The temple's layout follows the traditional Syro-Hittite plan, but includes a unique inner sanctum with a circular stone platform intended for libation rituals.
The discovery is expected to provide critical data on the religious transitions in the Neo-Hittite city-states after the collapse of the Bronze Age empires. Significant finds include ivory inlays and inscribed cylinder seals that detail diplomatic exchanges with the expanding Neo-Assyrian Empire. This temple represents one of the most complete sacred structures found in the region to date.