The Citadel
The temple and palace city of Karabalgasun is an impressive archaeological site that is still dominated by two striking buildings. The citadel in the south-east corner of the complex formed the central residential area.
Stupa and Citadel
Another particularly striking feature is a tower construction in the western half of the temple and palace city, which is referred to as a stupa and whose function is still unclear today. In the south-eastern corner is also the citadel itself, presumably the royal living quarters. This stacked podium, over 10 meters high and about 60 x 70 meters in size, was surrounded by a high wall that protected the inner area from attack. Stairs or ramps led to the interior of the citadel, which was accessed via two gates leading into the citadel.
A Magnificent Fortress
In summary, the citadel of Karabalgasun can be described as a magnificent fortress: You entered it through a large north gate and reached a paved courtyard surrounded by columns. From there, another portal led into a stately hall whose walls were decorated with gray-blue plaster. The entire building complex was carefully laid out, but the remains of destruction and gradual decay bear witness to the fact that the citadel was once the scene of fierce battles.
Artefacts from the Citadel in the Find Archive
The North Gate of the Citadel
The northern gate was particularly magnificent and was probably the main entrance. It was flanked by two massive wall projections that protruded into the inner courtyard. On the basis of preserved post constructions, we assume that a high gate tower secured the entrance, as is known from other contemporary complexes and illustrations. Through the gate, one entered a paved inner courtyard flanked by light buildings or open corridors along the citadel walls. A drainage system indicates that this courtyard was not covered.
The North Gate During the Excavation Work
The Western Gate
The western gate was smaller and simpler. A few steps and the remains of gate stringers that supported the rammed earth wall have been preserved here. This gate could also be closed by a massive door, the anchors of which can still be seen in the ground. Behind it, a wooden plank path led to a staircase that led to a 70 cm high platform. An elongated building, probably single-storey, stood on this platform.
The West Gate During Excavation Work
The Main Building
The main building of the citadel was located in the south-eastern corner. Here we found the remains of a tower-like structure measuring 20 x 20 meters. Inside, the building was divided by rammed earth walls and wood as well as three rows of column bases. The central room was a stately hall in which carefully crafted column bases indicate a large, stable building. Remains of rubble and traces of fire indicate that the citadel was destroyed by fire. The massive pile of rubble also suggests that the main building was compseveral storeys. Interestingly, the remains of a floor were discovered in the lower layers, which were protected by the thick masses of rubble. There was also evidence of warfare, such as arrowheads and anklets. The walls of the citadel probably stood for a while after the fire before gradually succumbing to erosion and finally collapsing.
The Main Building During Excavation Work
The Discovery of the Fountain
Evidence of water supply infrastructure was identified: we were able to discover the remains of a well in the inner courtyard, which reached deep into the ground and presumably ensured the water supply during sieges.
