A Journey Through Time in Western Turkey
In the historic Carian settlement of Knidos, located in the Datça district of Muğla province in western Turkey, archaeologists have made an astonishing discovery. Recent digs have uncovered Hellenic and Roman sculpted heads, providing fresh insights into this significant historical site.
The Splendor of Ancient Knidos
Knidos once flourished as a hub of science, architecture, and art. It was the birthplace of renowned figures such as:
- Eudoxus, an esteemed astronomer and mathematician
- Euryphon, a trailblazer in medicine
- Polygnotus, a celebrated painter
- Sostratus, the architect behind the Lighthouse of Alexandria
These exceptional individuals greatly enriched the city’s legacy, leaving a lasting impact through their knowledge and creations.
A Theatrical Landscape
The ancient Greek historian Strabo of Amasya famously described Knidos as “a theater ascending towards the Acropolis.” This vivid imagery resonates as archaeologists continue to unveil the city’s concealed treasures.
The Corinth Monument: A Wealth of Antiquity
Prof. Dr. Ertekin Doksanaltı, who leads the Knidos Ancient City Excavations, recently shared thrilling updates with Anadolu Agency regarding the discoveries at the Corinth Monument:
“We have uncovered five statue heads, the oldest of which dates back 2,400 years. These sculptures represent both the Hellenistic and Roman eras. Notably, one features Tyche, the goddess revered as the protector of cities in antiquity. Additionally, we’ve found large marble portrait heads. These discoveries rank among the most significant made in Knidos in recent years.”
Revealing Islamic History
The excavation efforts are not limited to classical antiquity. In the Umayyad Inscriptions Area, researchers have found new inscriptions from the late 7th century AD. These texts offer crucial insights into the Islamic conquests in Western Anatolia and the area’s rich historical tapestry.
A Collaborative Endeavor
This ongoing project exemplifies the strength of collaboration. The excavations receive support from various organizations, including:
- The General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museums
- Selçuk University
- The Turkish Historical Society
- The Governorship of Muğla
- The South Aegean Development Agency
As excavations progress throughout the year, Knidos is poised to unveil more of its ancient mysteries, connecting the past with the present in this enchanting region of western Turkey.
Perspective through video
