Peshawar, Nov 3, 2025 (APP): Eight more historical sites have been uncovered in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stretching from Swat to Taxila, during ongoing archaeological excavations. These discoveries add to the rich cultural heritage of the region, shedding new light on its ancient past.
One of the most significant finds is the remains of a 1,200-year-old small temple in Birkot, Swat, which provides a rare and invaluable insight into the region’s early civilizations. This discovery, made in collaboration with Italian archaeologists and the Provincial Department of Archaeology, offers compelling evidence of the cultural continuity that has existed in the area for centuries.
Dr. Luca, the Director of the Italian Archaeological Mission, explained that the excavation in the Birkot Bazira area revealed remnants of the small temple. To protect the site, the excavation zone has been expanded, with plans to establish a wide buffer zone along the Swat River, which will help preserve the newly discovered archaeological site for future generations.
This groundbreaking three-year project, titled Khyber Path, aims to provide employment to over 400 local people, offering them valuable training in archaeological excavation, conservation, and site management. Launched on June 1, 2025, the project is not only focused on preserving the region’s rich history but also on fostering local development, professional skills, and tourism.
Italian experts have already discovered over 50 archaeological sites across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, spanning a wide range of historical periods, from the Stone Age to the era of Alexander the Great, as well as Buddhist, Hindu Shahi, Greek, and Islamic periods. These discoveries reveal the region’s diverse and evolving cultural heritage, showcasing its importance as a crossroads of ancient civilizations.