Archaeological excavations in the ancient city of Blaundos, located in Uşak Province in western Turkey, revealed a marble inscription dedicated to Roman Emperor Hadrian, Anadolu Agency reported. The inscription, measuring 80 centimeters in length and 35 centimeters in width, features the phrase: “To the Savior and Founder Emperor Hadrianus Olympios.”
The discovery was made during ongoing excavation works that began in 2018 under the direction of the Uşak Museum Directorate. The excavations are part of the Heritage for the Future project implemented by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of Turkey. A team of 60 archaeologists is actively working on the site as part of this initiative.
Blaundos, established by soldiers during Alexander the Great’s campaign in Anatolia, is referred to as a garrison city due to its castle-like appearance. Surrounded by the deep Ulubey Canyon and having only one entrance, the city resembles a natural fortress, making it important both militarily and strategically.
Currently, archaeologists are working on excavations at a 2,000-year-old temple dedicated to Demeter, the goddess of agriculture and fertility, as well as a monumental tomb at the entrance of the city. The Colonnaded Street, which runs from east to west in front of the Temple of Demeter, served as the heart of the ancient city during the Roman and Byzantine periods.
Sabri Ceylan, the Provincial Director of Culture and Tourism, stated that excavations on the columned street began in the first week of November and that this area is one of the most important points of the ancient city. “Since the beginning of this month, we have started to uncover the street from east to west. So far, we have discovered four column bases,” Ceylan said, according to Anadolu Agency.
Ceylan noted findings indicating that the Colonnaded Street was actively used during the Byzantine period. “This street can be considered the heart of the ancient city. After the Roman period, the Byzantine period also added the same grandeur to this street,” he added.
While historical examinations of the inscription continue, archaeologists believe that it was likely created to honor Hadrian, who reigned from 117 to 138 CE. Hadrian is known for helping cities and expecting praise from the local population in return.
In addition to the inscription, the excavations have focused on a monumental burial area at the entrance of the city.
“After documentation, we plan to revive our ancient street here by doing restoration and survey works,” Ceylan said.
This article was written in collaboration with generative AI company Alchemiq
This article was originally published at www.jpost.com
