Qezel Tappeh

Qezel Tappeh (also spelled Ghizel Tapeh, Gizel Tapeh, and similar variations) is the name of several archaeological sites, primarily tells (artificial mounds formed from accumulated remains of successive settlements), located in Iran and surrounding regions. These sites often represent long periods of occupation, offering valuable insights into the prehistory and history of the areas where they are found. The name "Qezel Tappeh" literally translates to "Red Hill" or "Golden Hill" in various Turkic languages, referring to the color of the soil or other visual characteristics of the mound. Due to the commonality of the name and the geographical distribution of these sites, it is essential to specify which Qezel Tappeh is being discussed when referring to a particular archaeological location. Key areas where Qezel Tappeh sites are located include Northwestern Iran, particularly in the provinces of West Azerbaijan and East Azerbaijan. Excavations at these sites have yielded artifacts from various periods, ranging from the Neolithic to the Iron Age and later periods. These artifacts include pottery, tools, architecture remains, and burial sites, providing evidence about the cultures, economies, and social structures of past populations who inhabited the region.