A collection of children’s toys dating back 5,000 years was uncovered at one of the world’s earliest settlements. Among the finds is the world’s oldest toy vehicle—a clay model of a four-wheeled chariot. This ancient toy was found in a complex of tombs located in Sogmatar, Turkey, an area that was once a necropolis and a religious center dedicated to the Moon god, Sin.

One of the tombs, believed to be that of a child, contained both the wheeled chariot and a rattle adorned with a bird design. This rattle is also the oldest of its kind known to date. The sophistication of these toys suggests they were likely created for the children of high-status individuals, such as royalty or prominent figures of the Bronze Age, as such elaborate toys were not commonly accessible to the general populace.

Additional Information:

• Significance of the Find: These artifacts provide valuable insights into the culture and social status of individuals in ancient Sogmatar. They illustrate how toy making and design evolved over millennia.
• Cultural Context: Sogmatar’s role as a religious and burial site highlights its importance in the ancient world, offering a glimpse into the religious practices and social hierarchies of the time.
• Archaeological Impact: Discoveries like these help historians and archaeologists understand the daily lives and values of past societies, shedding light on the significance of play and childhood in ancient cultures.