Tue 08 October 2024:
Archaeologists have unearthed a 1,600-year-old Roman military structure in the ancient town of Hasankeyf, southeastern Türkiye, offering fresh insights into the rich history of the region. The discovery marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing excavation of one of the world’s oldest known settlements.
The excavation, led by Zekai Erdal, an art historian from Artuklu University in Mardin province, is part of a decades-long archaeological mission that began in 1984. Previous digs in Hasankeyf have uncovered cultural treasures from various periods, including relics from ancient Mesopotamian civilizations, the Assyrian and Byzantine empires, and Ottoman and Republican eras.
This year’s find stands out for its significance, as it provides physical evidence of a Roman military structure that had long been referenced in historical records but remained elusive until now. “Historical sources mentioned a late Roman military structure and fortress in Hasankeyf, but no trace had been found in previous research,” said Erdal. “We’ve unearthed the remains of a structure dating to the fourth century, believed to have been built during the reign of (Roman emperor) Constantine II.”
The structure was identified by comparing stone sizes and construction techniques with other Roman-era buildings. Consultations with experts on Roman architecture confirmed its significance. Constantine II, son of the first Christian emperor, ruled as the Eastern Roman Emperor in the fourth century, placing the discovery around 1,600 years ago.
Nestled along the banks of the Tigris River, Hasankeyf is not only home to this newfound Roman fortress but also features a Byzantine fortress and nearly 6,000 caves, many of which contain remnants of Christian and Muslim worship sites. The town was declared a conservation area in 1981, preserving its legacy as a cultural and historical marvel.
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Türkiye, a crossroads of ancient civilizations, boasts remarkable examples of Roman architecture that stand as a testament to the empire’s vast influence. From monumental theaters to aqueducts, these structures reflect Roman engineering prowess and cultural impact.
One of the most famous Roman cities in Türkiye is Ephesus, located near modern-day Selçuk. Its iconic Library of Celsus, built in the 2nd century AD, is a prime example of Roman grandeur. Ephesus also features a massive theater that could seat up to 25,000 people, showcasing Roman architectural brilliance in public entertainment venues.
In Antalya province, the Aspendos Theater stands as one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world. Built in the 2nd century AD, it is renowned for its incredible acoustics, still used today for performances, and remains an enduring symbol of Roman innovation in engineering and design.
Further inland, Aphrodisias, named after the goddess Aphrodite, was an important cultural hub in the Roman Empire. Its Sebasteion, an elaborate temple complex, and stadium reflect both the artistic and civic importance of Roman architecture.
Roman aqueducts in places like Patara and Izmir reveal the empire’s focus on infrastructure, bringing fresh water to urban centers across the region. These aqueducts exemplify Roman mastery over hydraulics and urban planning.
SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES
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