Roman theater ticket, Aphrodite figurine, Thyrsus unearthed in Türkiye’s Duzce
3 artifacts, which are considered to belong to the Roman period found during the ongoing excavations in the ancient city of Prusias Ad Hypium in the Konuralp region of Duzce, Türkiye, November 30, 2024. (AA Photo)
Ongoing excavations at the Prusias ad Hypium ancient city in the Konuralp region of Duzce have unearthed three significant Roman-era artifacts. These findings add to the extensive historical inventory of the site, which dates back to the third century B.C.
Continuous excavations supported by Duzce’s local authorities
The archaeological efforts, conducted under the supervision of the Konuralp Museum Directorate, have been ongoing for five years with permission from the Directorate General of Cultural Heritage and Museums and the support of Duzce Municipality. Despite being impacted by earthquakes and restoration efforts over the centuries, the ancient city has yielded numerous treasures during these excavations.
Notable discoveries so far include the head of Medusa, a bust of Alexander the Great, an Apollon statue, a lion-adorned mosaic, and a portrait bust attributed to M. Iulius Proklos, the architect of the ancient theater’s stage building. Additionally, a Byzantine-era water storage basin has been added to the cultural heritage inventory.
Roman-era artifacts: Theater ticket, Aphrodite figurine, Thyrsus
The latest discoveries include a terracotta theater ticket, a figurine depicting Aphrodite, and a Thyrsus symbol—highlighting the city’s connection to Roman culture and entertainment.
Duzce Mayor Faruk Ozlu emphasized the historical significance of these findings, stating, “We are taking significant steps to preserve and showcase this 2,300-year-old legacy for future generations.” He added that 80% of the theater has been uncovered, with plans to restore it into a 10,000-seat cultural and arts center.
Mayor Ozlu expressed excitement over the pristine condition of the newly unearthed artifacts, describing the site as a potential game-changer in understanding the region’s history.
“Beneath this settlement lies a Roman city. Experts have confirmed its presence, and the artifacts we have encountered could rewrite history,” he remarked.
Destination of historical significance
Konuralp Museum Director Ihsan Arslan highlighted the cultural value of the recent discoveries. As excavations continue, Prusias ad Hypium is increasingly seen as a candidate for becoming a designated archaeological site of national and international importance.
The transformation of the ancient theater and ongoing discoveries cement the site’s reputation as one of Türkiye’s historical treasures, attracting researchers and history enthusiasts alike.
