Istanbul police uncover 500 centuries-old artifacts depicting Jesus, Mary

Authorities in Istanbul have seized a vast collection of historical artifacts, including 500-year-old doors adorned with depictions of Jesus and Mary, in a coordinated operation targeting illegal smuggling.

The Istanbul Police Department’s Anti-Smuggling Division conducted simultaneous raids on three locations in the Fatih district, leading to the arrest of two suspects and the discovery of numerous culturally significant items spanning several historical eras.

Seized artifacts include ancient coins, icons, and religious objects

During the operation, police recovered 150 coins believed to originate from the Byzantine and Roman Empires, as well as the Ottoman Empire’s classical and Westernization periods.

Additionally, items from Spain’s maritime empire, the Federal Republic of Germany, and the United States were found. Authorities also seized 334 Christian icons made of wood, depicting Jesus, Mary, and other revered saints. These objects varied in size and were considered sacred within Christian traditions.

Other recovered artifacts included 63 ethnographic objects reflecting social, scientific, and religious life, as well as mechanical arts from past centuries.

These items ranged from protective and offensive weapons to decorative objects, rings, earrings and seals. Handwritten books, illuminated manuscripts and miniatures were also part of the haul.

Further discoveries included 39 silver spoon sets from the late Ottoman period, 28 seals dating to the late Ottoman and early Turkish Republic eras, and tiles produced in Kutahya and Iznik. Authorities also seized three Ottoman fortress rifles and two ivory objects featuring depictions of Jesus and Mary.

Istanbul police seize 500-year-old doors, other rare items under investigation

The standout discovery involved two intricately designed doors, estimated to be 500 years old, which featured images of Jesus and Mary. An ancient Hebrew manuscript believed to be a book of spells was also among the items seized.

The recovered artifacts, currently held at the Istanbul Police Department’s headquarters, will be transferred to prominent museums, including the Hagia Sophia Museum, the Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts, and the Istanbul Archaeological Museums.

Fighting against illegal trade of cultural heritage in Türkiye

The Istanbul Police Department has emphasized its commitment to combating the illicit trade of historical artifacts. In a statement, officials noted that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to prevent the smuggling of cultural heritage, both domestically and abroad.

The two suspects, detained during the raids, are under investigation for their alleged involvement in the illegal trade of these artifacts. Legal proceedings are expected to follow.