Archaeologists have uncovered a well-preserved bronze cauldron in the "Mosaic House" complex within the ancient city of Pergamon, modern-day Bergama, Turkey. The cauldron was found in a stone courtyard pool, believed to have been used during the Roman period. This discovery offers valuable insights into daily life and craftsmanship during late antiquity.
The cauldron, dating back approximately 1,400 years, was discovered in its original, undisturbed position, providing direct information about the cultural practices and daily routines of that era. Bronze was a valuable material in antiquity, typically reserved for special uses, highlighting the cauldron's significance.
Crafted using a hammering technique, the cauldron's manufacturing method remains nearly unchanged for over a millennium, reflecting the enduring tradition of Anatolian bronze craftsmanship. The vessel was likely used to transport water from the pool to a nearby kitchen area, supporting theories about domestic life and resource usage during the late Roman and early Byzantine periods.
The "Mosaic House," known in ancient times as a "peristyle house," features a large residential complex with a central stone courtyard and pool. The building appears to have been abandoned around the seventh century, possibly due to Arab raids, and remained untouched, allowing the cauldron to be found exactly where it was last used.
This find is part of broader excavations carried out under Turkey's "Heritage for the Future" Project, initiated by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The project aims to preserve and uncover the multi-layered cultural legacy of Pergamon, which includes remains from prehistoric, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods.