VAN During archaeological excavations in Van’s Tuşba district, a basalt stone statue weighing nearly one ton, dating back to the Urartian period , was uncovered in an area that was subjected to a rescue excavation last year. Excavations continue at the historical site identified last year during a rescue operation at Garibin Tepe , located 30 kilometers from the city center and 3 kilometers from Ayanis Castle. The excavation, led by Van Museum under the scientific supervision of Professor