Archaeologist deciphers ancient message on Turkish monument

In Turkey, archaeologists have made a significant breakthrough in understanding the cultural heritage of the Phrygians, a people who lived in the region from approximately 1200 to 600 BC. The discovery centered around the Arslan Kaya monument, a 52-foot tall statue made of volcanic rock, first noticed in the 1880s. After years of neglect, the monument's inscription was found to be severely worn, making previous attempts to decipher it unsuccessful. The recent analysis was conducted by Mark Munn, a professor of Ancient Greek History and Archaeology at Pennsylvania State University. During his visit to the site in April 2024, he used advanced photography techniques that illuminated previously unreadable letters, allowing him to confirm that the word ‘Materan,’ which translates to ‘mother goddess,’ was part of the inscription. This monument features various carvings, including those of lions and sphinxes, which add to its historical significance. Munn's discovery highlights the potential of the Arslan Kaya monument not only as a physical artifact but as a representation of Phrygian religious beliefs. The Phrygian Mother, as depicted in the inscriptions and carvings, is considered a powerful figure associated with the natural world. Munn noted that while he could read the name of the goddess and identify some letters, further analysis will be necessary to fully understand the remaining inscriptions, which may provide more context regarding the individual who dedicated the statue to the goddess. Despite the extensive history of the Phrygians, including their notable leaders like King Midas, this deciphering marks a fresh understanding of their society and spiritual beliefs. The findings from Arslan Kaya not only contribute to the body of knowledge surrounding ancient civilizations in Turkey but also emphasize the importance of modern archaeological techniques in uncovering and preserving history. As more scholars increase their efforts in the region, ongoing research is expected to reveal more insights into the life and culture of the Phrygians. Munn's work serves as a reminder of the rich, albeit overlooked, narratives that ancient artifacts can tell beyond their physical presence. The fact that Arslan Kaya contains both the name and representation of the mother goddess uniquely positions it in the context of Phrygian worship practices. This inscription is not merely a relic but a vital connection to understanding the belief systems and rituals that characterized the Phrygian way of life, prompting a closer examination of other similar monuments across the region. As scholars continue to interpret the messages of the past, archaeological sites like Arslan Kaya and their inscriptions may hold keys to unraveling deeper historical links and cultural significance that have yet to be explored.