Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery in Turkey, unearthing a royal tomb believed to be linked to the family of King Midas. This find, located at the Gordion archaeological site, offers new insights into the Phrygian kingdom’s wealth and culture during the 8th century B.C. The tomb, dating back roughly to 750 B.C., was found after four months of painstaking excavation work. It is situated about 60 miles southwest of Ankara, the Turkish capital, and was identified as part of the burial site of the ancient Phrygian kingdom, which once controlled much of western and central Anatolia.
Professor C. Brian Rose, a University of Pennsylvania archaeologist leading the excavations at Gordion, stated that the tomb, designated as Tumulus T-26, contained a wealth of artifacts. These include finely crafted bronze vessels, iron tools, and the cremated remains of the deceased, indicating the high status of the individual buried there. Rose emphasized that the burial chamber remained undisturbed by looters, which allowed for the preservation of several artifacts. The tomb’s proximity to the burial mound of Midas’ father, which is known from historical accounts, suggests a familial connection to the legendary King Midas, who reigned between 740 and 700 B.C.
Some of the most interesting finds include pair of large bronze cauldrons used in funeral feasts, which were likely used to serve food and drink. Although no food residue was found on the vessels themselves, Rose noted that earlier discoveries at the site had revealed details about the diet of the Phrygians, which included a spicy lentil and barbecued sheep or goat stew, often accompanied by a mixture of wine, beer, and honey mead. These details add to the understanding of the daily lives and social customs of the people who lived during that period.
Additionally, the tomb’s location and the presence of other ancient Phrygian relics suggest that Gordion was a central hub in the region’s trade networks. The discovery of Baltic amber in another nearby tomb, Tumulus T-52, which contained over 3,000 beads, indicates that the Phrygians had extensive trade connections with distant regions. This further highlights the economic and cultural significance of the Phrygian kingdom during the first millennium B.C.
The recent findings add to a growing list of significant archaeological discoveries in the region. Earlier this month, Egyptian officials announced that several high-ranking ancient Egyptian officials had been found in newly discovered tombs, underscoring the ongoing importance of archaeological research in uncovering the past. In Syria, a contractor recently uncovered a Christian tomb complex dating back to the Byzantine Empire, revealing additional insights into the region’s religious and historical context.
These discoveries not only shed light on the history of the Phrygian kingdom but also contribute to a broader understanding of ancient civilizations and the complex trade networks that connected them. As archaeologists continue to excavate and study these sites, new information about the past continues to emerge, offering valuable perspectives on the lives, cultures, and interactions of ancient peoples.