On-Site Visit by MAUN Rector to Malazgirt Battlefield Research Project
Rector of Muş Alparslan University, Prof. Dr. Mustafa Alican, conducted an on-site visit to observe the ongoing scientific work being carried out in the Malazgirt Plain as part of the project titled “Identification of the Malazgirt Battlefield: Historical and Archaeological Surface Survey”, which is being implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and our university.
The visit was held within the scope of the 2025 summer season field studies, with the aim of obtaining first-hand information about the current status of archaeological surface surveys and test excavations, assessing scientific progress, and reinforcing the university’s contribution to the project.
During the field inspection, Rector Alican and the project’s academic advisor, Prof. Dr. Adnan Çevik, carried out comprehensive evaluations of the ongoing archaeological activities. The rector was briefed on the tangible outcomes of the surface survey through explanations based on archaeological findings and stratigraphic observations from the excavation sites.
Also accompanying the visit was Dr. Ahmet Oğuzhan Karaçetin, Rector’s Advisor and Coordinator of the Malazgirt Project. Dr. Karaçetin provided insights into the interdisciplinary approaches, research methods, and key questions guiding the project, and shared up-to-date information on the university’s role in the initiative.
Emphasizing the academic and methodological depth of the project, Rector Prof. Dr. Mustafa Alican noted that Muş Alparslan University’s contribution extends beyond logistical field support and plays an active role in scientific output. He expressed his appreciation for the direct and intensive participation of university faculty members in this season’s research activities and affirmed that the university will continue to play a leading role in archaeological and historical research in Malazgirt.
Rector Alican described the scientific objectives and progress of the project as highly satisfactory based on the field observations, and stated that the university administration will continue to provide necessary academic and administrative support at all stages of the work.
Prof. Dr. Adnan Çevik, the project’s academic advisor, expressed his appreciation for the Rector’s visit, highlighting its positive impact on scientific motivation, university–project integration, and the promotion of interdisciplinary collaboration. Dr. Karaçetin added that the surface research conducted in Malazgirt aims to make valuable contributions to the fields of battlefield archaeology and historical geography, emphasizing that Muş Alparslan University is assuming a position of scientific leadership in the process.