LONG-RANGE METAL WEAPONS FROM KURUL FORTRESS IN THE LIGHT OF RECENT FINDINGS

Abstract

Kurul Fortress is one of the fortified Northern Anatolian settlements noticeable for its finds representing the Late Hellenistic Period. The general character of the settlement reflects a fortified settlement with adjacent regular rooms surrounded by a main defensive wall supported by towers. According to the archaeological evidence obtained, it is understood that the settlement was fortified during the Pontic king Mithradates VI Eupator. The reign of Mithradates VI has an important role in military history due to the wars against the Roman Republic. In ancient sources, there are statements about how the third war (74-63 BC) brought destruction to the settlements in Pontos geography. Excavations carried out at Kurul Fortress present finds parallel to those described in ancient sources, with traces of fire reflecting a great destruction and numerous weapon finds. During excavations from 2010 to 2022, a total of 1,289 weapons were found, 967 of which are metal. Among the metal weapons in which iron and lead are used as raw materials, long-range weapons constitute the largest percentage. With this study, it is aimed to reconsider the long-range metal weapons found at Kurul Fortress with regard to the current data.