The Enigmatic Tumulus of Adıyaman: Sesönk (Dikilitaş)

Located in the Besni district of Adıyaman, the Sesönk (Dikilitaş) Tumulus, built 2,060 years ago for II. Mithridatis, the son of Commagene King I. Antiochos, stands out with its unique structure and challenging accessibility. This historical edifice, carved into the bedrock, offers visitors a journey through time.  

The tumulus is situated in the rocky and high-altitude Kızıltepe region. A staircase leads down to the burial chamber, which contains three niches. Atop the carved bedrock, a tumulus composed of rubble stones, 7 meters high and 30 meters in diameter, was constructed. Unlike other tumuli, Sesönk Tumulus was built using large rubble stones instead of soil and small pebbles.

This structure, housing the tomb of II. Mithridatis, son of Commagene King I. Antiochos, dates back to between 36-21 BC. The tumulus originally featured six columns on its north, south, and east facades, though two of the east-facing columns have since collapsed.

Due to its location in a high and rocky area with no vehicular access, this significant historical site receives very few visitors. Reaching the tumulus requires a 20-25 minute walk.

Museum Director Mehmet Alkan provided the following information about the tumulus: “The tumulus here is 7 meters high and features a tomb with three niches, carved into a rock. It is currently accessible, and its upper sections are elevated with 7 meters of rubble stones. Resembling Karakuş, it appears to be a burial structure of the Commagene Kingdom. Additionally, it is believed that King II. Mithridatis, son of I. Antiochos, was buried here between 36-21 BC. It takes about 20-25 minutes to walk here. It’s a very pristine, high-altitude area. We know the Commagene kings generally built all their structures in high places.”

Sesönk Tumulus stands as a unique architectural example of the Commagene Kingdom, a must-see for history and archaeology enthusiasts. However, due to its difficult access, those wishing to visit should come prepared.