Researchers Claim Possible Discovery of Prophet Noah’s Ark in Turkey

According to a report in the British media, an international team of experts is conducting research at the Durupinar site near Mount Ararat in eastern Turkey, where a boat-shaped formation has attracted attention for decades.

Researchers say they have detected carbon in soil samples collected from the site. However, samples taken from the soil a few metres away did not contain the same element.

According to the researchers, the findings could indicate the presence of organic material that may have come from ancient wooden remains. However, no actual pieces of wood have been discovered so far.

New ground-penetrating radar scans of the area have also reportedly detected underground structures that do not appear to match the natural formation of the surrounding mountains.

Speculation that Prophet Noah’s Ark may be located at the site dates back to 1959, when aerial photographs of the area drew attention to the unusual formation.

Local media reports say the mysterious structure became visible after heavy rains and earthquakes in the region caused surrounding soil to wash away in May 1948. It was reportedly discovered by a shepherd.

Researchers have collected around 1,000 soil samples from different parts of the site and tested them for the presence of carbon and other materials. The team has also used radar technology to examine structures located around 20 feet below the surface.

Researchers say the soil samples contained organic material and potassium, which they believe could be consistent with decayed wood from an ancient wooden vessel.

However, the researchers acknowledge that the findings do not provide 100 per cent proof that the structure is the remains of an ancient wooden boat. They estimate there is still a possibility that the findings could have another explanation.

The same research team announced its radar survey of the region in August 2026. The data is still being analysed, while drilling is being carried out at specific locations to determine what lies beneath the unusual formation.

The researchers say they believe the Ark of Prophet Noah is located at the site, but they have stressed that their findings are still preliminary and do not yet prove that the structure is the Ark. Further research and analysis will be required before any definitive conclusion can be reached.