Unique ancient stone pool complex discovered in Astara, Azerbaijan PHOTO

Archaeologists have uncovered a rare ancient stone complex of pools shaped like a lotus flower in the Alishah fortress located in Astara.

The complex dates back to between the 1st century BCE and the 3rd century CE, making it an exceptional find in Azerbaijan, Caliber.Az reports.

The discovery was announced by the National Academy of Sciences of Azerbaijan (NAS), where experts from the Institute of Archaeology and Anthropology conducted excavations in the Astara district.

The newly found site features pools arranged in a quatrefoil, or four-leaf clover shape, a design that represents a rare example of ancient water infrastructure. This is the first such complex discovered on Azerbaijani soil, underscoring its significant scientific and historical value.

Notably, this type of pool design has so far been recorded only among civilisations of the Near East, Iran, and the Mediterranean, the Academy said.

By Vugar Khalilov