Neo-Assyrian and Persian Periods in the Tabal / Cappadocia Region in the Light of the Topakli Höyük Finds

The earliest excavations in Topaklı Höyük have been carried by Italian Luigi Polacco between 1967 and 1974. This study discusses eight Neo-Assyrian and Persian ceramic vessels, found during the short-term excavations carried out in Topaklı Höyük. First, the Neo-Assyrians and then the Persians prevailed in Topaklı Höyük, located in the Tabal region. According to the Neo-Assyrian written documents, Assyria influenced the Tabal region. However, the data directly proving the existence of the Neo-Assyrians is insufficient. The bowl found complete in Topaklı Höyük provides evidence for the presence of the Neo-Assyrians. The presence of the Persians in the region is known from written documents. The ceramics found in the mound reveal the Persian influence in Topaklı Höyük. It is known that the metals extracted from the rich mineral deposits in Tabal were sent to the Neo-Assyrians and Persians as taxes. These metals are suggested to have been transformed into Neo-Assyrian and Persian-type vessel forms and sent to the homeland. The ceramics not familiar to the region found in Topaklı Höyük may well have been the terracotta versions of these metal vessels. The ceramics found in Topaklı Höyük may well have been preferred for daily use by the artisans of low economic status immigrating to Tabal from Neo-Assyrian and Persian mainland or surrounding settlements. The Neo-Assyrian and Persian finds handled in this study diversify the Iron Age ceramic culture of the Tabal region and proves the Assyrian and Persian influences in the region.