Japan’s NHK begins filming documentary on Tabal Kingdom’s legacy in Türkiye
The filming of a documentary on the Tabal Kingdom, located in the Golludag region of Nigde, has started by Japan's national television network. (IHA Photo)
Japan‘s national television network NHK has started filming a documentary about the ancient Kingdom of Tabal, located in the Golludag region of Nigde.
The documentary will focus on the ruins of Tabal, an ancient city with a rich history dating back to the eighth century B.C. This archaeological site is situated at the peak of Golludag, in the village of Komurcu in Nigde’s Ciftlik district.
Importance of Tabal Kingdom in history
The ancient city of Tabal is a significant historical and archaeological site. Governor Celik, who provided information to the Japanese television crew, explained the importance of the region both for Türkiye and the world.
He said, “This area is important from both a Turkish and global perspective. Golludag was a settlement during the eighth century B.C., during the reign of the Tabal Kingdom, a regional state that formed after the fall of the Hittite Empire. Tabal was one of the most important kingdoms in Southern Cappadocia, with its capital being Tyana, which is now modern-day Kemerhisar. Tyana was a prominent area during the Byzantine and Roman periods, connecting Anatolia to the Eastern Mediterranean. The Assyrians’ repeated invasions led the Tabal Kingdom to settle in this strategically secure area.”
Historic discoveries at Tabal ancient city
The ruins of the Tabal Kingdom are also notable for their well-preserved fortifications and unique sculptures. The ancient city’s walls are 5 meters high and 3 meters wide, with lion statues that have drawn attention from archaeologists.
Governor Celik emphasized the significance of the site by noting, “The first archaeological excavations in the Republic period took place here at Tabal. The double-headed lion statue uncovered during excavations in 1933 is now on display at our museum. Golludag’s volcanic nature is also believed to have played a role in the formation of the fairy chimneys.”
A historic collaboration with Japan’s national television
Governor Celik expressed his pleasure in hosting the Japanese film crew, saying, “We are happy to welcome our Japanese friends here. We hope they create a wonderful documentary showcasing the historical importance of this ancient site.”
The historical and archaeological significance of the Tabal Kingdom and its connection to the broader history of the Hittite and Roman periods will undoubtedly attract global attention.
