Hittite Mythology: Embracing Chaos in the Myths of Hedammu and Illuyanka
Hittite mythology is a rich and complex belief system that reflects the influence of gods, goddesses, and natural forces on human life; this mythology is filled with profound narratives that shape the worldview, values, and cultural identity of ancient Hittite society. In the rich tapestry of ancient mythology, the tales of Hedammu and Illuyanka stand
Roman Traces in the Heart of Germany: Surprising Discoveries in Delbrück-Bentfeld
In the quiet countryside of northwestern Germany, archaeological excavations in Delbrück-Bentfeld have uncovered an unexpected Roman presence beyond the borders of the Roman Empire. This discovery reshapes our understanding of Roman influence in the region and illuminates the complex interaction between Roman settlers and local populations. Located on the banks of the Lippe River, approximately
Restoration Efforts Revitalize Ancient Majesty at Persepolis
Restoration work has resumed at key heritage sites within Persepolis, a UNESCO World Heritage site in southern Iran, following a pause during the Nowruz holidays. Projects are underway at the Apadana Palace, the rock-carved tomb of Artaxerxes III, and the southern inscription of the Terrace (Takhtgah), all remnants of the ancient Achaemenid Empire (c. 550–330
2900-Year-Old Erzin Stele: A Key to Understanding the Hittite to Greek Mythological Transition
In a significant archaeological discovery, a basalt stele was unearthed in 1987 by O. Günay while plowing his field at the Yurtlak locality, located just a few kilometers west of Erzin in Hatay Province. This remarkable artifact, registered with inventory number 17183 at the Hatay Archaeology Museum, is broken in half but retains its historical
Mancılık Church, Once a Local “Central Bank,” Plundered by Treasure Hunters, Awaits Restoration
The Mancılık Church, located in the village of Mancılık in the Kangal district of Sivas, and whose history is unknown, has become a target for treasure hunters. The historical structure, which has been plundered by treasure hunters for years, is awaiting restoration to be brought into tourism. According to the villagers, the church once served
Commagene Kingdom’s Monument Defying Time: Sesönk Tumulus
In the mystical geography of Adıyaman, the Sesönk (Dikilitaş) Tumulus rises like a whisper from beyond time. This ancient structure is the 2060-year-old resting place of II. Mithridatis, son of Commagene King I. Antiochos. Bearing traces of luxury and splendor, this tumulus, with its rock-carved chambers and massive stone mound, holds a captivating mystery. Unlike
The 2200-Year-Old Assembly Building of Stratonikeia, The City of Gladiators, will Return to its Old Days
The 2200-year-old assembly building of the Ancient City of Stratonikeia, known as the “city of gladiators” in the Yatağan district of Muğla and included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, is being restored to its former glory with meticulous work carried out under the “Legacy for the Future” project. This unique ancient city, bearing
A Remarkable Newly Deciphered Hittite Tablet Sheds New Light on The Trojan War
The Hittites, creators of invaluable written records from the Anatolian Bronze Age, have gifted us thousands of cuneiform tablets unearthed at sites like their capital, Hattusa (modern Boğazköy, Çorum). Hittitologists, by deciphering these tablets, have revealed crucial insights into Hittite history, religion, and economy, while also providing a window into life in ancient Anatolia. A
Esatlı Rock Inscriptions Reveal That Turkish Migrations to Anatolia Occurred Earlier Than Previously Thought
Turkish tribes initiated a westward migration wave from the lands known as Central Asia. The Turkish people who migrated westward in two major branches reached Anatolia in one branch, while the other branch moved towards Europe through the Russian steppes. According to official history, the Turks’ adoption of Anatolia as their homeland began with the
In Troy, Wine Was a Drink for the Common People, Not Just the Elite
In the Ancient City of Troy, where legends and realities intertwine through thousands of years of history, the belief that wine was a luxury drink exclusive to the elite has been radically changed by a scientific study. A collaborative effort by archaeologists from the Universities of Tübingen, Bonn, and Jena has proven that wine was