Archaeologists have utilized advanced radar technology to identify what they believe could be the remains of Noah’s Ark in Turkey. The investigation, led by a team from Noah’s Ark Scans, employed Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) to reveal a “chemical imprint,” pieces of wood, and the outline of a hall within the Durupinar Formation, situated approximately 18 miles south of Mount Ararat. This site is significant due to its connection to Biblical narratives, which describe the Ark as a vessel that saved humanity and animal life from a catastrophic flood over 4,300 years ago.
The research team, headed by independent investigator Andrew Jones, reported discovering angular formations and a hollow space deep within the mountain. The GPR analysis indicated a prominent corridor measuring around 13 feet wide, suggesting the presence of distinct walkways throughout the structure. According to Jones, the findings align with the Biblical description of the Ark as having three decks, as mentioned in Genesis 6:16.
In an interview with the Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN), Jones explained the team’s findings: “We’re not expecting something that’s fully preserved. What’s left is the chemical imprint, pieces of wood in the ground, and the shape of a hall.” The Durupinar Formation itself has been known to the modern world for less than a century, having first gained attention after heavy rains and seismic activity in May 1948 exposed its features.
The Biblical account states that Noah’s Ark came to rest on the “mountains of Ararat” after a 150-day flood, which purportedly eradicated all life not aboard the vessel. The top of the Durupinar Formation bears a striking resemblance to the dimensions described in sacred texts, which specify the Ark’s measurements as approximately 515 feet long, 86 feet wide, and 52 feet tall.
The debate surrounding the formation has been ongoing for generations, with scholars divided on whether it is a natural geological structure or evidence of a man-made artifact. Researchers from Noah’s Ark Scans advocate for the latter, citing new discoveries from their GPR scans. These scans have revealed angular structures extending as much as 20 feet below the surface, which could indicate compartments consistent with the specifications of Noah’s Ark.
Jones remarked, “This is not what you’d expect to see if the site were simply a solid block of rock or the result of random mudflow debris. But it is exactly what you’d expect to find if this were a man-made boat.” Furthermore, soil analysis conducted by the team uncovered differences in grass color within the formation compared to the surrounding area, hinting at a potential artificial origin.
Fellow team member William Crabtree noted the presence of a passageway that appears to run from the formation’s tip to its center, spacious enough for an individual to walk through. Crabtree’s soil testing revealed that the organic matter within the formation was double that found in the adjacent earth. He explained, “If this was a wooden boat and the wood had rotted over time, we would expect to see elevated levels of potassium, changes in pH, and higher organic content—and that’s exactly what we’re finding.”
The researchers plan to extend their soil testing beyond the 22 samples already collected and prepare for core drilling to gain further insights. Jones emphasized the importance of comparing the conditions inside the formation to those outside, which may provide clarity on whether this structure is indeed man-made.
As the investigation continues, the implications of these findings could contribute significantly to our understanding of ancient narratives and geological formations. This archaeological endeavor not only seeks to uncover historical truths but also ignites widespread interest and debate around one of humanity’s oldest stories.
