Stunning Sarcophagi Uncover 2nd Century Mummies
In a remarkable discovery, archaeologists in Iznik, western Turkey, have uncovered three mummified skeletons from the 2nd century A.D. The remains were found inside two elaborately decorated sarcophagi at the Hisardere Necropolis in Bursa’s Iznik district, providing an intriguing insight into the area’s Roman Imperial heritage.
Continued Excavations Uncover Historical Riches
Under the leadership of Dr. Aygün Ekin Meriç from the Archaeology Department at Dokuz Eylul University, the excavation has identified a total of six sarcophagi in the vicinity. The necropolis, heavily utilized during the second and third centuries, also features distinctive chamber tombs adorned with painted interiors and decorative elements that are unmatched in other locations.
Grand Sarcophagi and a Sacred Basilica
The newly discovered sarcophagi are particularly striking, embellished with Eros reliefs on three sides. Additionally, the excavation team is exploring a sacred basilica within the cemetery grounds. This basilica measures 30 meters in width and 50 meters in length, and it includes a mosaic inscription that suggests it was dedicated to an unnamed woman.
From Illicit Digs to Academic Research
Dr. Meriç remarked that the site had faced illegal excavations since 1989. However, after expropriation in 2018, authorized excavations began in 2019, leading to these extraordinary finds that significantly enhance our comprehension of ancient Anatolian history.
