Armenian tombstones found in Istanbul’s Taksim Square

rmenian tombstones found in Istanbul’s Taksim Square

– June 29, 2013

YEREVAN, JUNE 29, ARMENPRESS. Armenian graves have been found in Istanbul’s Taksim Square at the course of the construction activities. As reports “Armenpress” citing TurkishDemokrathaber.net, the Minister of Culture and Tourism of Turkey Ömer Çelik and opposition Republican People’s Party (CHP) deputy Sezgin Tanrikulu stated this.
Among other things the Minister of Culture and Tourism of Turkey Ömer Çelik noted that 16 tombstones and walls of historic monuments dating back to the 19th century have been found at the course of the construction works. Experts from the Archaeology Museum of Turkey arrived at the square, after the tombstones were found.
From 28 May 2013, protests raised against the plans of replacing Taksim Gezi Park with a reconstruction of the historic Taksim Military Barracks (demolished in 1940), with the possibility of housing a shopping mall. The protests developed into riots when a group occupying the park was attacked by police. The subjects of the protests have since broadened beyond the development of Taksim Gezi Park, developing into wider anti-government demonstrations. The protests have also spread to other cities in Turkey, and protests have been seen in other countries with significant Turkish communities. In 31 May 2013, police suppressed the protesters with tear gas, arrested at least 60 people and injured hundreds. The police action received wide attention online. Protesters organized and gathered on İstiklal Avenue, reaching thousands on the night of 31 May. 5 men died in the clashes between the Police and the protestors, more than 7500 people were injured and 5 thousand – arrested.