A Journey Through Time in Western Turkey
In the ancient Carian settlement of Knidos, nestled in the Datça district of Muğla province in western Turkey, archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery. Recent excavations have unearthed Hellenic and Roman sculpture heads, shedding new light on this historically significant site.
The Glory of Ancient Knidos
Knidos was once a thriving center of science, architecture, and art. It was home to notable figures such as:
- Eudoksus, an astronomer and mathematician
- Euryphon, a pioneer in medicine
- Polygnotos, a famous painter
- Sostratos, the architect of the Alexandria Lighthouse
These brilliant minds contributed greatly to the city’s legacy, leaving behind a wealth of knowledge and artistic works.
A Theatrical Landscape
The ancient Greek historian Strabo of Amasya once likened Knidos to “a theater rising towards the Acropolis.” This poetic description comes to life as archaeologists uncover more of the city’s hidden treasures.
The Corinth Monument: A Treasure Trove of Antiquity
Prof. Dr. Ertekin Doksanaltı, head of the Knidos Ancient City Excavations, shared exciting news with Anadolu Agency about the recent findings at the Corinth Monument:
“We’ve unearthed five statue heads, with the oldest dating back 2,400 years. These sculptures span the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Among them is a depiction of Tyche, the goddess known as the protector of cities in ancient times. We’ve also discovered colossal marble portrait heads. These findings are considered one of the greatest discoveries made in Knidos in recent years.”
Unearthing Islamic History
The excavation efforts extend beyond the classical period. In the Umayyad Inscriptions Area, researchers have uncovered new inscriptions dating to the late 7th century AD. These provide valuable insights into the Islamic conquests in Western Anatolia and the region’s rich history.
A Collaborative Effort
This ongoing project is a testament to the power of collaboration. The excavations are supported by 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 work continues throughout the year, Knidos promises to reveal more of its ancient secrets, bridging the gap between past and present in this corner of western Turkey.
