Ancient necropolis found during construction

The traces of an ancient necropolis have been unearthed during the construction of a culture center in the northern Turkish province of Sinop’s Gelincik neighborhood. The construction has been halted and excavation work has begun with the permission of the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museums.

The ancient necropolis was discovered during the construction 
of a culture center [Credit: AA]

Sinop Museum Director Hüseyin Vural said many artifacts dating back to the 4th century B.C. have been found through the eastern border of the necropolis.

“There are tombs and amphora among the artifacts as well as tomb gifts such as various types of Greek pottery, scent bottles and coins. We have also unearthed findings related to the Jewish faith in the west of the necropolis area. Works have been continuing,” he said.

Sinop Governor Yasemin Özata Çetinkaya said such cultural beings were always found during construction works in Sinop and salvage excavations were started. “The city is located on really historic land,” she said.

“It is exciting that these valuables which have remained underground for 6,000 years are now being presented to humanity. When the excavations are done, the findings will be removed and the construction of the culture center will continue here. The findings will be displayed in the museum,” the governor said.

“If it is approved, we can display these findings in an area in the culture center. Then the center will work as a natural museum. There are many examples of it in Turkey and the world. This is the most-preferred method,” she added.

Source: Hurriyet Daily News [May 11, 2015]