During excavations carried out at the Getahovit-2 cave in Tavush Province under an Armenian-French collaboration, two carbonized wild grape seeds dating back to the 5th millennium BCE were discovered. These finds prove that local inhabitants were familiar with grapes, brought them to the cave, and used them as early as the Chalcolithic period, although there is no direct evidence of winemaking yet.
According to Irena Kalantaryan, head of the archaeological expedition, potential remains of a domesticated horse and an intriguing attempt to depict a human face on a river pebble were also discovered within the cave's layers. Of particular note is a bone spearhead around 20,000–25,000 years old, which retains traces of binding attachments and is currently on display at the Ijevan Wine and Brandy Factory Museum.
The well-preserved archaeological layers of the monument make it possible to conduct a detailed study of ancient human lifeways and daily routines. These investigations are ongoing to uncover new details about the region's history.
The archaeological discoveries at Getahovit-2 once again highlight the rich historical and cultural potential of Armenia's territory. Such archaeological finds offer deeper insight into the lifestyle, occupations, and interactions with nature of the people who lived in this region thousands of years ago.
The continuity of these studies is vital for Armenian studies and global archaeology alike. The preservation of ancient strata and new scientific approaches promise further discoveries in the future.
