Türkiye’s Top Archaeological Discoveries of 2024: A Landmark Year in Exploration

Türkiye’s Golden Age of Archaeology continues to shine, with 765 archaeological studies completed in 2024, yielding groundbreaking discoveries across Anatolia.

• 4,000-year-old seal in Kütahya: Unearthed in Tavşanlı Mound, this Assyrian Trade Colonies period faience cylinder seal reveals new trade routes connecting Central and Western Anatolia.
• Minoan dagger in Antalya: A bronze dagger with silver rivets, typical of the Minoan civilisation, was discovered in underwater excavations at Kumluca.
• Hygieia statue head and Scylla statues in Denizli: A finely crafted 2,100-year-old Hygieia head and painted Hellenistic-era Scylla sculptures were found in Laodikeia, reflecting classical art’s revival.
• 7,800-year-old female figurine in İzmir: Excavations at Ulucak Mound unearthed a storyteller-like figurine from 5800-5900 BC, the earliest example of its kind.
• Arrowheads from the Battle of Manzikert in Muş: Excavations revealed 39 arrowheads and coins confirming use during the historic 1071 battle that marked the Turks’ entry into Anatolia.
• Millefiori panels in Antalya: Stunning glass decoration panels using the ancient “Millefiori” technique were uncovered at Andriake port, a first in Türkiye.
• Ancient furniture shopping list in Hatay: A Bronze Age cuneiform tablet found in Aççana Mound details an extensive royal furniture order, reflecting advanced craftsmanship.
• Food storage in Kars: Excavations at Ani ruins revealed Seljuk-era storage jars and a peacock-motif bowl, showcasing medieval prosperity.
• Urartian military equipment in Van: Ayanis Castle yielded bronze shields, a helmet, and religious artifacts from the 7th century BC.
• Zeus head in Aydın: A colossal 2nd-3rd century AD Zeus head, a masterpiece of Aphrodisias sculpture, was discovered in Aphrodisias.
• Agricultural treasures in Kahramanmaraş: Carbonized grains, chickpeas, apricots, and garlic found in a silo pit shed light on ancient agricultural practices.
• First motion depiction in Şanlıurfa: A Neolithic stone slab at Karahantepe features a carved wild donkey in motion, a remarkable artistic achievement of its time.
• Apollo altar in Antalya: At Phaselis, an altar to Apollo with male and lion statues, votive figurines, and other rare artifacts was unearthed.

These discoveries underscore Türkiye’s pivotal role in ancient civilisations and its enduring contributions to the study of human history as we embrace the opportunities of 2025.