Geochemical and petrographic approach for the origin of the limestone blocks of thewalls of the Great Temple of Hattusha, Çorum (N-Turkey)

A groundbreaking analysis of the limestone blocks used in the Great Temple at Hattusha, the ancient Hittite capital, reveals that these stones likely originated from five distinct sources. This conclusion is drawn from a comprehensive study combining petrographic and geochemical analyses, including stable isotopes (δ13C and δ18O) and trace element geochemistry, alongside Sr isotope ratios. The findings not only shed light on the construction techniques of this monumental structure but also provide valuable insights into the Hittites' acquisition and utilization of building materials during their civilization.

YILMAZ, İ. Ö., SCHACHNER, A., UYSAL, İ. T., & İMER, E. Ü. (2022). Geochemical and petrographic approach for the origin of the limestone blocks of thewalls of the Great Temple of Hattusha, Çorum (N-Turkey). Turkish Journal of Earth Sciences, 31(3), 294–304. https://doi.org/10.55730/1300-0985.1774