Archaeologists have discovered an ancient terracotta mask of Dionysus during an excavation exercise in western Turkey. The masks date almost 2400 years, according to the leader of the excavation team.
Kaan Iren, the archaeologist that led the excavations in the historic city of Daskyleion in the western region of Balıkesir, informed Anadolu Agency (AA) that the mask is one of the most important discoveries of the year. They discovered the mask of the ancient Greek god in the city of Acropolis.
More
- Old Tooth Piece Shows Ancient DNA Linkage Yet To Local Americans
- 10 Most Strange and Fascinating Facts About Ancient Egypt
“Maybe this is a votive mask. With further study, further information would become available over time,” said Iren, a professor at Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University.
Dionysus Mask
According to legend, wearing the mask is a way to pay tribute to Dionysus, the Greek god of carnivals and masquerades. It was believed he helps you to liberate yourself from secret desires and hidden remorse. It is also said that Dionysos hid both his identity and power and is regarded as a patron of the arts.
Daskyleion is located in Balıkesir province of Bandırma, on the shore of Lake Manyas, and dates back to the period when Asia Minor had several ancient Greek villages.
Iren said a cellar in the Lydian kitchen in the city’s acropolis was unearthed this year. “Work continues to discover seeds as well as other organic parts from the excavation in the Lydian kitchen. This also includes the surrounding area through a flotation process,” he added.
According to the archaeologist, with further study, we will better understand the region’s 2,700 years ago food and eating patterns. The name fo the city was Daskyleion in the 7th century BC.
According to Turkey’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism website, the prominent Lydian Ruler, Daskylos, came to the city from Sardis. He migrated due to a dynastic conflict. He had his son Gyges in Daskyleion and later took him back to Lydia.
