Unexpected Discovery in Turkish Coastal Town
In the picturesque coastal town of Fethiye, Turkey, archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery that sheds new light on the region’s rich history. During ongoing excavations at Fethiye Castle, a well-preserved statue head, believed to be approximately 1,800 years old, was unearthed from within the castle walls.
A Glimpse into Lycian Antiquity
The statue head, tentatively identified as depicting the god Apollo, dates back to the 2nd century AD. This finding offers a tantalizing glimpse into the artistic and religious practices of ancient Lycia, a region that once flourished along Turkey’s southern coast.
Fethiye Castle: A Sentinel of History
From Telmessos to Turkish Rule
Fethiye Castle, originally constructed to protect the ancient Lycian city of Telmessos, has stood witness to centuries of history. Over time, it has seen various occupants and renovations, from its Byzantine reconstruction to its tenure under the Knights of St. John.
Ongoing Excavations Reveal Multiple Layers of History
The current excavation project, part of the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s “Legacy to the Future” initiative, has yielded a treasure trove of artifacts spanning multiple eras. In addition to the Apollo statue head, the team has uncovered:
- Coins from the Turkish-Islamic period
- Ottoman-era artifacts
- Relics from the Menteşe Beylik
- Cannonballs and ceramic fragments
- Various items of daily use from different historical periods
Implications for Future Research
Professor Kadir Pektaş, the scientific director of the excavation, emphasized the significance of the statue head discovery. While initial assessments suggest it may depict Apollo, further research is underway to confirm its identity and cultural context.
As excavations continue, Fethiye Castle promises to reveal more secrets about the region’s past, offering invaluable insights into the diverse civilizations that have called this corner of Turkey home over the millennia.
