Ram-Sheep Shaped Gravestones

Ram-Sheep Shaped Gravestones

The province of Tunceli in Turkey boasts several village cemeteries with unique tombstones that reflect the traditions of the ancient Turkmen Akkoyunlu tribal empire. These ram-shaped tombstones serve not only as markers but also as displays of traditional religious and mythological elements, as well as customs and traditions.

Standing tall, the ram-sheep tombstones feature relief figures of animals, plants, and various items such as swords, knives, shields, and looms. These figures indicate the gender, social position, and profession of the person buried there. For instance, swords, shields, and horses represent the valor of men, while symbols like the oil lamp and scale shape are attributed to clergy. Similarly, objects such as needles, handles, and hands are associated with women.

Ram-Sheep Shaped Gravestones

Some tombstones also feature religious objects, including the Zulfikar sword belonging to Hazrat Ali, alongside a sun disc, indicating that the interred individual was a believer. For instance, Sağlamtaş Village in the Pülümür District boasts eleven ram statues dating back 250-300 years ago, each weighing 200-300 kg and positioned on both sides of tombstones.

Numerous cemeteries in Tunceli, including Hozat-Uzundal Village Cemetery, Mazgirt-Yeldegen Village Cemetery, and Pertek-Kayabağ Village-Hırhal Mezra Cemetery, to name a few, boast old tombstones that are registered and protected. The intricate designs and symbols on these tombstones provide a glimpse into the cultural heritage of the region.