Ancient relics of the Byzantine era discovered in the 4000-year-old town of Samuha

The ancient city of Samuha, a major Hittite center located in central Turkey, is currently the focus of ongoing archaeological excavations. The Directorate of Museums in Turkey is involved in the management of these excavations, which have been underway since 2005 in the Kayalıpınar village of Sivas.

The project, currently led by Cigdem Maner of Koc University's Archaeology and Art History department, has unearthed a wealth of findings from various historical periods. This season's excavations, which began on July 3 and will continue until mid-September, have revealed artifacts from the Hittite, Old Assyrian, Roman, Early Byzantine, and Medieval eras.

Beneath the Byzantine remains, Hittite tablets have been discovered, providing valuable insights into the city's history. Moreover, Roman roads built over Hittite walls and later Byzantine structures have been uncovered, offering a unique glimpse into the city's development over time.

One of the key findings is an Early Byzantine cemetery, which confirms that the site was used as a burial ground during this period. Fragments of glass oil lamps, coins, a bronze earring, and a pendant were found in the cemetery, along with early cross engravings on tomb covers.

Ozgu Cumezoglu Uzbek, deputy head of excavations, emphasized the significant Byzantine discoveries at Kayalipinar (Samuha). Nearby trenches revealed perfume bottle fragments, ceramics, and more lamps, adding to the collection of Byzantine artifacts.

The finds at the site extend into the Seljuk period, with artifacts dating as late as the 12th and 13th centuries. As the excavations continue, archaeologists are confident that further discoveries await in the coming years.

The excavations in Kayalipinar village, Sivas, are coordinated by the Sivas Museum Directorate. Vuslat Muller-Karpe, a consultant on the project, has been instrumental in its progress. The excavations in Samuha provide crucial insights for Eastern Cappadocia as a whole, shedding light on the rich history of this region.

Ancient relics of the Byzantine era discovered in the 4000-year-old town of Samuha