Illegal Excavation in Türkiye’s Tokat Uncovers Rare Roman Mosaic
An illegal excavation in the Zile district of Tokat province has led to the unexpected discovery of a colorful Roman-era mosaic, shedding new light on the region’s rich and ancient history. Archaeologists believe the intricately designed floor mosaic may have once adorned a public building during the Roman period. Tokat is known as one of
Byzantine-Era Child and Adult Burials Unearthed in Türkiye’s Ancient City of Herakleia
Archaeological excavations in the ancient city of Herakleia, located in the Milas district of Muğla, southwestern Türkiye, have revealed numerous burials dating back to the Byzantine period. The high number of child graves raises the possibility of a historical epidemic having struck the region. Excavation work continues to uncover remarkable findings at Herakleia, an ancient
Apollo Temple in Didim Opens for Night Visits: A Journey Through Ancient Prophecies After Sunset
One of the ancient world’s most mystical and awe-inspiring landmarks, the Temple of Apollo in Didim, Türkiye, is now open for nighttime visits. As part of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s “Heritage for the Future” initiative, the ancient prophecy center has been illuminated to offer visitors a truly unique experience under the stars.
‘Star Watcher’ Figurine Found in Gedikkaya Cave Could Rewrite Human History
Archaeological excavations carried out between 2019 and 2023 in Gedikkaya Cave, located in Bilecik Province, northwest Türkiye, have uncovered groundbreaking evidence that could reshape the narrative of early human settlement. Among the remarkable discoveries is a marble figurine known as the “Star Watcher,” which is believed to date back to the Chalcolithic period (5500–3500 BCE)
Excavations Begin at Termessos, the City Alexander the Great Refused to Attack: Ancient Monumental Tomb Will Be Unearthed
Nestled within the Güllük Dağı National Park in Antalya, Türkiye, the ancient city of Termessos is now witnessing a significant historical moment. For the first time, official archaeological excavations have begun in this remarkably well-preserved site. The project, jointly conducted by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism and Antalya Bilim University, aims to unearth
Historic Ani Cathedral Under Restoration: Reopening as a Mosque Under Consideration
One of Kars’ most significant cultural heritage sites, the Ani Cathedral (Surp Asdvadzadzin), is undergoing extensive restoration. Upon completion, authorities are considering opening the historic structure to visitors as a mosque. Located within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Ani Archaeological Zone, the cathedral was built in the late 10th century during the rule of
Ancient Nomadic Burial Mounds Unearthed in Mongolia Reveal Turkish-Mongol Cultural Legacy
Joint archaeological excavations led by Turkish and Mongolian scholars are shedding new light on the burial traditions of nomadic civilizations that once roamed the vast Eurasian steppes. As part of the “Culture of Horsemen” project, carried out in collaboration between Istanbul University and Mongolian State University, archaeological excavations have resumed in the Tuv Province of
1,600-Year-Old Set of Weights Shaped as Ancient Greek Letters Discovered in Uzuncaburç Ancient City
Archaeologists uncover a complete weighing system from Late Antiquity during excavations in southern Türkiye A team of archaeologists has uncovered a rare 1,600-year-old weighing set — including five iron weights shaped as Ancient Greek letters — during excavations at Uzuncaburç, an ancient city located in the Silifke district of Mersin, southern Türkiye. The discovery sheds
Excavations Resume at Tralleis Ancient City in Aydın: Italian Archaeologists Join 2025 Season
The ancient city of Tralleis, located in the Efeler district of Aydın and considered one of the region’s earliest settlements, has entered its 29th year of archaeological excavations. The 2025 excavation season is currently underway, focusing mainly on the bath and gymnasium complex, with a new team of archaeologists arriving from Italy to join the
Forgotten Hittite Legacy in İzmir: Karabel Rock Monument Cries for Help
Hidden among the rugged hills of western Türkiye, the Karabel Rock Monument, a rare and invaluable Hittite relic, is slowly deteriorating due to neglect, vandalism, and lack of protection. Situated along the Kemalpaşa–Torbalı road in İzmir, this ancient site stands as one of the last surviving examples of Hittite rock art in Anatolia. A 3,000-Year-Old