In the ancient city of Hadrianaupolis, nestled in the Eskipazar district of Karabük, Turkey, archaeologists have made an extraordinary discovery. An iron mask, believed to be around 1,800 years old and belonging to a Roman soldier, has been unearthed, offering new insights into the Roman Empire’s influence in the region.
The Excavations at Hadrianaupolis Ancient City
Since excavations began in 2003, Hadrianaupolis has been a treasure trove of historical artifacts. Under the meticulous guidance of Assoc. Dr. Ersin Çelikbaş from the Karabük University Archeology Department, the team has been uncovering the secrets of this ancient city, which dates back to the 1st century BC and flourished until the 8th century AD.
The Discovery of the Iron Mask
The recent discovery of an iron mask within a mysterious square-planned structure has provided valuable insights into the Roman Empire’s defensive strategies in the Western Black Sea Region. Assoc. Dr. Çelikbaş highlighted the significance of the find, stating, “This mask also belongs to a Roman soldier. A Roman cavalry face mask, a piece of helmet.”
The intricate design of the mask suggests it was used by a Roman cavalry soldier, showcasing the military prowess of the Roman Empire. The location of its discovery indicates that Hadrianaupolis might have served as a defensive military city established by the Romans. As Assoc. Dr. Çelikbaş explained, “We think that one of these defensive military cities was Hadrianaupolis.”
The Historical Significance of the Iron Mask
The discovery of the iron mask is a significant addition to our understanding of the Roman Empire’s reach in the Western Black Sea Region. Artifacts like this mask provide invaluable insights into the Roman presence and their defensive strategies in the area. The mask is estimated to date back to the 3rd century, a period of Roman expansion and consolidation.
Previous Significant Discoveries in Hadrianaupolis
The iron mask is not the only remarkable find from Hadrianaupolis. In October, the team uncovered an iron ring dating back 1,800 years, featuring an agate stone engraved with Pan, the god of shepherds in Greek mythology. This discovery, along with the iron mask, underscores the historical significance of the site and the importance of ongoing archaeological investigations.
Preservation and Museum Display of the Findings
Preserving and displaying the artifacts discovered in Hadrianaupolis is crucial for their long-term protection. Movable findings like the iron mask and the ring are transferred to local museums for conservation and public display. Immovable artifacts are preserved in situ, ensuring their historical integrity and providing valuable information for future study.
These preservation efforts reflect the dedication of the excavation team and the local authorities to safeguarding the cultural heritage of Hadrianaupolis. By making these discoveries accessible to the public, they are not only preserving the past but also inspiring future generations to appreciate the rich history of the region.
