During ongoing archaeological excavations in the ancient city of Prusias ad Hypium in the northern province of Düzce, a remarkable discovery has been made, as reported by the Daily Sabah.
This historical city, often referred to as the “Ephesus of the Western Black Sea region,” has been the focus of extensive archaeological efforts, involving a team of 60 individuals, including six archaeologists.
Numerous significant findings have been uncovered in the course of these excavations. Notable among these discoveries are the head of Medusa, a figure from Greek mythology known as the “snake-haired female monster that turns anyone who gazes into her eyes into stone.”
Additionally, various statue heads, tombs, and numerous artifacts believed to date back to the first or second century B.C. have been unearthed.
Recent research has also shed light on the theater section of the ancient city. As part of these efforts, the excavation team turned their attention to the upper section of the ancient theater. It was in this context that an asymmetrical pithos, a large earthenware jar typically used for storing water or grain, was found adjacent to the foundations of a late Ottoman-early Republic-era building. Authorities are currently working to expedite the removal of the pithos to ascertain the specific historical period to which it belongs.
Historically, the ancient city of Prusias ad Hypium, formerly known as “Hypios” and “Kieros,” experienced a succession of rulers and influences. It was originally captured by Prusias I of Bithynia, after which it was renamed by the people of Bithynia in honor of their king. Subsequently, the city came under Roman control, significantly augmenting its architectural richness.
Over time, the city passed into the hands of the Byzantines and later the Ottomans. During Ottoman rule, it was transferred to Konuralp Bey, a prominent Turkish commander involved in the establishment of the empire, by Osman Ghazi, the empire’s founder. It was under these circumstances that the region of the city came to bear its current name, Konuralp.
