Ancient 3,750-year-old faience cylinder seal discovered at Türkiye’s Tavsanli Hoyuk

The ongoing excavation of Tavsanli Hoyuk, known as the “heart of Kutahya,” is led by Professor Erkan Fidan, Head of the Department of Archaeology at Bilecik Seyh Edebali University Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism has announced a significant discovery at the site: a 3,750-year-old faience cylinder seal found during the archaeological excavations at Tavsanli Hoyuk in Kütahya, Türkiye.

This find, dating to the end of the Assyrian Trade Colonies Period, is expected to fill a significant gap in the trade history of Anatolia.

Faience cylinder seal found in fire layer

According to the ministry’s statement, the seal was uncovered in a fire layer associated with the destruction of the city.

The faience seal is rare, with delineated upper and lower borders and decorated with nested “V” motifs.

This discovery represents the first example of such a seal in Western Anatolia.

Revealing trade routes

The seal highlights the existence of new trade routes between East and West.

This find marks the first example of faience cylinder seals in Western Anatolia, contrasting with similar finds at major trade centers like Kultepe and Acemhoyuk in Central Anatolia.

The artifacts found during the excavation further strengthen the connection between this trade center and Mesopotamian and Central Anatolian origins.

Other noteworthy discoveries

Additional findings include weapons and human remains of four individuals found amid the fire debris, enhancing the significance of Tavsanli Hoyuk.

These discoveries provide new insights into the scale of Anatolia’s historical trade networks and the cultural interactions of the period.

Minister Ersoy’s statement

Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy commented on the discovery, stating, “This valuable find sheds new light on Anatolia’s role in the trade routes between East and West. Tavsanli Hoyuk once again proves the richness and diversity of our cultural heritage. We remain committed to preserving and passing on Türkiye’s cultural treasures for future generations.”

Minister Ersoy also expressed gratitude to the Directorate of Excavations and Research and the excavation team for their efforts.