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Ancient Tombs Unearthed as Iraq's Mosul Dam Dries Up

8/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Archaeologists in drought-affected Iraq discovered 40 ancient tombs and a Hellenistic-era city as Mosul Dam water levels drop.
The tombs, estimated to be over 2,300 years old, are located in Duhok province's Khanke region.
Excavations focus on preserving artifacts before they may be submerged by rising water levels.
These findings underscore climate change's effect on Iraq's archaeological heritage.

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Story summary

Archaeologists in drought-affected Iraq discovered 40 ancient tombs and a Hellenistic-era city as Mosul Dam water levels drop.
The tombs, estimated to be over 2,300 years old, are located in Duhok province's Khanke region.
Excavations focus on preserving artifacts before they may be submerged by rising water levels.
These findings underscore climate change's effect on Iraq's archaeological heritage.