Unexpected Find During Urban Renewal Project
In a surprising turn of events, the demolition work for Sinop’s City Square National Garden project has led to an extraordinary archaeological discovery. As workers cleared buildings in front of the historical city walls along Turkey’s Black Sea coast, they uncovered a 2,500-year-old alto-relievo depicting bull heads.
A Glimpse into Ancient Power Symbols
The newly revealed artwork, carved directly into the castle wall, features four bull heads intricately designed. Experts believe this relief was created as a symbol of power in ancient times, offering a fascinating insight into the historical significance of Sinop.
Project Background and Progress
Revitalizing Sinop’s Historical Heritage
The demolition, which began on December 16, 2021, is part of a larger initiative by Turkey’s Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change. This project aims to enhance Sinop’s tourism potential by showcasing its historical castle walls. To date, five buildings, including the Sinop Municipality’s service building, have been removed.
Understanding Alto-Relievo
The Art of Sculptural Relief
For those unfamiliar with the term, alto-relievo is a form of sculptural relief where figures project at least half or more of their natural circumference from the background. This technique creates a dramatic, three-dimensional effect, allowing the ancient bull heads to stand out prominently from the castle wall.
This unexpected discovery not only enriches our understanding of Sinop’s ancient past but also highlights the potential for urban development projects to unearth hidden historical treasures.
