Material values dating back to Urartian times have been unearthed in the province of Gegharkunik in Armenia's east, they are currently being cleaned and restored by a state service for protection of historical environment.

The service says that of particular importance are several objects, including a jug-cup, an ancient clay bawl, two large agate spherical beads, which are unique in form and method of preparation.

Also, a large amount of anthropological and animal remains have been discovered.

According to the head of the protection service, PhD in History Ashot Piliposyan, the archaeological material is really exceptional and dates from the 7th century.

"Our colleagues from Gavar's Museum of Regional Studies called and informed that the villagers had accidentally discovered archaeological material during construction work, but that the institution was unable to acquire the finds," Piliposyan said.

"We went to study the site and found out that a mausoleum of Urartian period had indeed been found near the cemetery of the village of Hatsarat, in Gavar. Following negotiations, we managed to obtain all the materials."

The objects will be cleaned and restored to later be displayed as part of Metsamor Historical and Archaeological Museum-Reserve's permanent exhibition of Urartian era.