Are excavations happening on the Durupinar boat formation this year?

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Subject: Update on Research Activities at the Durupinar Site

We have received inquiries regarding the status of archaeological work, specifically potential excavations, at the Durupinar Noah’s Ark site. To clarify the current situation, we refer to the statement previously provided to the British Sun:

“Excavations at the “boat site” haven’t started yet because we first need more geophysical surveys, core drilling, and careful planning. The location lies in an active earth flow with harsh winters, so protecting the area is our top priority. Over the next few years, our Turkish university partners will conduct non-destructive tests—like soil sampling, radar scans, and other methods—to determine if the structures we’ve detected are truly man-made or simply natural formations. Only after we gather enough evidence and have a proper preservation plan in place will we consider excavating.”

As outlined in our statement, the immediate priority is the protection and preservation of the site. Before any consideration of excavation, extensive preliminary research, including non-destructive methods like geophysical surveys and core drilling, must be conducted by our Turkish university partners. This scientific work is essential to understand the nature of the subsurface structures.

Therefore, we can confirm that no excavations are planned for this year. The current focus remains on non-invasive scientific investigation and analysis to ensure any future steps are based on solid evidence and a robust preservation strategy.