A team investigating a boat-shaped formation in eastern Turkey reports that new drilling evidence is strengthening its case that the site may hold the remains of Noah's Ark. Andrew Jones, founder of Noah's Ark Scans, told "Saturday in America" that the group is inching toward confirmation after recent soil analysis work with Sivas University.
The investigation centers on the Durupınar formation. It is a geological structure approximately 538 feet long located near Mount Ararat. The site has drawn speculation for decades due to its shape and proximity to the region identified in biblical accounts. First discovered in 1959, the formation has long been a subject of debate among researchers and enthusiasts.
Critics have historically argued that the Durupınar formation is a natural geological occurrence, such as a syncline or a solid mass of bedrock. Jones stated that recent core drilling at more than 12 locations failed to find any bedrock. This challenges those previous conclusions. Instead, the team uncovered rich black soil. Researchers plan to test this for organic content this winter at Ankara University.
Jones explained that according to the Bible, Noah's Ark was a giant wooden boat. Decaying wood typically leaves behind elevated organic matter. He noted that the drilling did not reveal a solid rock layer as critics predicted. Rather, it revealed large deposits of highly rich black soil. The upcoming analysis aims to determine if there are signs of human activity or materials consistent with decayed wood beneath the formation.
Jones also cited a 2024 soil survey. He stated it found three times more organic matter inside the boat-shaped formation than in samples collected just outside it. The team believes this data provides new reasons to challenge the conclusion that the structure is solely natural. Sivas University remains the partner for the ongoing soil analysis, with results expected this winter.