Noah's Ark Researchers Claim New Evidence Strengthens Discovery Case

Researchers investigating a boat-shaped formation in eastern Turkey believe new evidence is strengthening their claim that the site could be the remains of Noah's Ark. Andrew Jones, founder of Noah's Ark Scans, stated that ongoing soil analysis and drilling at the Durupınar formation are bringing the team closer to confirmation.

The Durupınar formation, a geological structure approximately 538 feet long located near Mount Ararat, has been a focus for researchers for decades due to its shape and proximity to the biblical account's geographical references. The formation was first discovered in 1959.

Jones stated that recent core drilling at over 12 locations within the formation did not encounter bedrock. Instead, the drilling revealed significant deposits of rich black soil. "We did not find bedrock at all," Jones told Fox News. "But we did find large deposits of highly rich black soil that has hopefully high organics."

Critics have previously suggested the formation is a naturally occurring geological feature. However, Jones noted that the absence of bedrock and the presence of the dark soil challenge this theory. The team plans to test the soil for organic content this winter at Ankara University. "As wood decays, you're gonna find elevated organic matter," Jones explained, referencing the biblical description of Noah's Ark as a large wooden vessel.

A 2024 soil survey also indicated three times more organic matter within the formation compared to samples taken just outside it, according to Jones. The researchers hope the upcoming analysis will help identify signs of human activity or materials consistent with decayed wood beneath the formation. The team is partnering with Sivas University for the soil analysis.