Arkeofili, an archaeological organization in Turkey, has announced the top ten archaeological discoveries for 2024, showcasing significant findings that shed light on ancient civilizations.
Among the notable discoveries is a burial site in Çemka Höyük, Mardin, where a woman believed to be a shaman, aged between 25 and 30, was found buried with a wild ox skull, alongside other animal remains. This extraordinary burial practice suggests a connection to ancient beliefs about the spirit world.
In Şanlıurfa, a room filled with skulls was uncovered at the Sefertepe site, dating back to the Neolithic period. The room contained 22 skulls, indicating that they were displayed in special structures for a period, reflecting the burial customs of that era.
In Kumluca, Antalya, a 3,600-year-old bronze dagger with silver rivets was discovered underwater, linked to the Minoan civilization. This finding enhances understanding of trade routes and cultural exchanges in the Mediterranean.
A monumental basalt statue, weighing approximately one ton, was excavated in Van, attributed to the Urartian civilization. The statue, which is thought to represent a divine figure, is currently undergoing restoration.
In the ancient city of Notion, İzmir, archaeologists found a pot containing gold coins from the Persian Empire, believed to have been hidden during a military occupation in the 5th century BC.
A marble head of Zeus, measuring 66 cm, was discovered near the Temple of Aphrodite in Aphrodisias, dating back to the 2nd or 3rd century AD. This artifact is thought to have been part of an architectural structure.
In Kırıkkale, a clay tablet dating to the reign of Hittite King Tuthaliya II was deciphered, detailing a foreign invasion and its devastating effects on Hittite cities.
Excavations at Boncuklu Tarla in Mardin revealed over 100 pieces of jewelry used for body piercing, providing evidence of early body modification practices.
In Çatalhöyük, Konya, remnants of bread dating back approximately 8,600 years were found in an ancient oven, indicating early baking practices.
Finally, in Niğde, decorated skulls from individuals aged between 15 and 40, as well as a child, were discovered, showcasing ancient burial customs and the use of pigments for decoration.