1750-Year-Old Pithos Burial Found at Hadrianopolis in Turkey's Black Sea Region
Translated from Turkish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- An ancient pithos burial, dating back 1750 years, has been discovered at the Hadrianopolis ancient site in Karabük, Turkey.
- The archaeological dig, ongoing in 2026, also uncovered a skeleton and several artifacts within the burial.
- Artifacts found include pottery, a lamp, coins, a knife, and bone clasps.
Archaeological excavations at the ancient city of Hadrianopolis in Turkey's Karabük province have yielded a significant discovery: a 1750-year-old pithos burial containing a skeleton and various artifacts. The ancient city, believed to have been established in the 1st century BCE and used until the 8th century CE, is currently undergoing its 2026 archaeological fieldwork.
The excavation, led by Prof. Dr. Ersin Çelikbaş from Karabük University's Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, Department of Archaeology, uncovered the large ceramic jar, known as a pithos, which served as a burial vessel. Inside, researchers found the skeletal remains of an individual, alongside a collection of items likely intended for the afterlife.
Among the artifacts unearthed were seven pottery vessels, a lamp, coins, a knife, and two bone clasps. These objects provide valuable insights into the burial customs and material culture of the people who inhabited Hadrianopolis during its active period. The ongoing work at the site promises further discoveries that will illuminate the history of this ancient settlement.
Originally published by Cumhuriyet in Turkish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.