istele

Istele is a term that originates from the ancient Near East, specifically from the Hittite language, and is often translated as "stone tablet" or "stone monument." It was commonly used to refer to various types of stone structures, including stelae, which are upright stone monuments, and stele, which are flat or slightly inclined stone slabs. These structures were often used for religious, funerary, or commemorative purposes.

In ancient Mesopotamia, istele were frequently employed to record important events, laws, or royal decrees. They were typically inscribed with cuneiform script and could be found in temples, palaces, and public spaces. The materials used for istele varied, but they were often made from limestone, sandstone, or other durable stones.

The term istele is also used in modern times to refer to any stone monument or tablet, regardless of its origin or purpose. It is a versatile term that encompasses a wide range of stone structures, from ancient artifacts to contemporary art installations.