Tracing the Millennia-Long Journey of Obsidian from Bitlis to the Levant
A new archaeological project led by Bitlis Eren University (BEU) aims to uncover the ancient trade and cultural pathways that carried obsidian from the volcanic mountains of Bitlis, Türkiye, to the heart of the Middle East thousands of years ago. Obsidian, a naturally occurring volcanic glass, was a prized material in the Neolithic era, used
Rare 3,500-Year-Old Hittite Sword Now on Display at Kastamonu Museum in Türkiye
A rare bronze sword dating back 3,500 years to the Hittite civilization is now on public display at Kastamonu Museum in northern Türkiye. The artifact is part of a newly opened bronze exhibition titled “102 Exhibitions for the 102nd Anniversary: A Journey Through Anatolia’s Cultural Heritage in the Light of the Republic.” Measuring 42 centimeters
Türkiye’s Culture Minister Ersoy on Göbeklitepe: “We Are Committed to Shedding Light on Human History”
On the 7th anniversary of Göbeklitepe’s inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List, Türkiye’s Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, emphasized the country’s ongoing efforts to preserve and study the site—often described as the “zero point of history.” Sharing his message via social media, Minister Ersoy stated: “Göbeklitepe, the oldest and most striking
Hagia Sophia in Crisis: “A 1,500-Year-Old Legacy on the Brink of Collapse”
Experts Sound the Alarm: “This is no longer a mosque or museum—it’s an emergency site” Built by the order of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 537 AD, Hagia Sophia has stood at the heart of Istanbul for nearly 1,500 years. Originally constructed as a cathedral, later converted into a mosque, then a museum, and once
Around 9,000 Years Ago: What Role Did Women Play in Çatalhöyük Society? New Discoveries Reveal Insights
Located in central Anatolia, the ancient settlement of Çatalhöyük continues to provide valuable insights into early human civilization. Recent interdisciplinary research has revealed that women held a significant role in shaping social structures nearly 9 millennia ago. An international team of scientists from Turkey, Denmark, Sweden, and the US examined the genetic makeup of 131
Tralleis Ancient City to Open to Visitors: A 23-Year Dream Comes True
One of Turkey’s hidden archaeological gems, Tralleis Ancient City in Aydın, is set to welcome visitors starting August 2025. This milestone marks the fulfillment of a 23-year dream for excavation director Prof. Dr. Murat Çekilmez, who has dedicated his entire academic career to this historic site. From Student Volunteer to Excavation Director Prof. Çekilmez first
Excavations Begin at Kedrai Ancient City: Sedir Island’s Hidden History Resurfaces
The 2025 archaeological excavation season at Kedrai Ancient City, located on Sedir Island in Muğla’s Marmaris district, will officially begin on June 23. This year’s work will focus on deepening research around the grand basilica and ancient theater. Sedir Island’s historical treasure Kedrai prepares for a new excavation season Situated off the coast of Muğla’s
A mosaic inscribed with “Only those on the right path may enter” has been unearthed at the entrance of a church in the ancient city of Olympos
A new mosaic inscription has been uncovered at the entrance of a Byzantine-era church in the ancient city of Olympos, located in the Kumluca district of Antalya, Türkiye. The inscription reads: “Only those on the right path may enter,” offering a striking glimpse into the spiritual symbolism of the site. Excavations at the ancient city
Excavations Start in the Ancient City of Lystra, Mentioned in the Bible
Archaeological excavations have resumed in 2025 at the ancient city of Lystra, located in Konya’s Meram district — a site of great historical and religious significance, particularly within Christian tradition. Known as one of the rare cities mentioned in the Bible, Lystra is attracting growing international interest. Nestled between the Botsa and Hatunsaray regions of
Surprising Discovery in the Ancient City of Magnesia: First Structures from the Christian Era Unearthed
Archaeological excavations in the ancient city of Magnesia, located in the Germencik district of Aydın, have uncovered a brand new historical layer that sheds light on the city’s past. For the first time, evidence spanning from the Late Roman period to the Christian era and the pre-Beyliks period has been identified. With a 2,400-year history,