Ancient mural fragment with vivid colours uncovered at Erebuni

(Horizon Media / YEREVAN) — A joint French-Armenian archaeological mission has discovered a rare fragment of an ancient mural at the Erebuni archaeological site, with its colours remaining exceptionally well preserved after more than 2,500 years.

The French Embassy in Armenia described the find as unprecedented, noting that the mural fragment is believed to date from the second half of the seventh century BC or the early sixth century BC.

The discovery offers archaeologists a valuable new glimpse into the artistic traditions and decorative practices of the ancient Kingdom of Urartu. Its unusually vivid pigments are expected to provide important material for further research into Urartian art, architecture and painting techniques.

The embassy said the find also reflects the strength of the long-standing scientific partnership between France and Armenia, whose joint archaeological projects have continued to produce significant discoveries.

Founded in 782 BC by Urartian King Argishti I, Erebuni is among Armenia’s most important archaeological monuments. The ancient fortress and settlement remain a major source of information on the political, cultural and artistic life of Urartu.