In a remarkable twist of archaeological fortune, what was initially thought to be a beautiful water nymph statue has been revealed to be something far more significant – a representation of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love and beauty. This stunning discovery emerged following detailed examination by experts from Bartın University and the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
The Discovery
At a depth of 3.70 meters beneath the ancient city of Amasra on Turkey’s Black Sea coast, archaeologists unearthed a magnificent 1.53-meter-tall statue. This site, with its rich history dating back to the 12th century B.C., was once home to the Phoenician colony of Sesamus and later flourished under the governance of Iranian Princess Amastris.
From Water Nymph to Goddess
The Initial Misidentification
Güray Can Aytekin, Deputy Director of the Amasra Museum, explains the fascinating journey of identification: “We initially introduced it as a water fairy due to its location in what we believed to be a pool area. However, further examinations revealed its true nature as Aphrodite.”
Artistic Significance
The statue’s distinctive S-curve posture, a hallmark of classical 4th century B.C. works, particularly those from the school of Praxiteles, proved crucial in establishing its identity. Experts have dated the statue to the Roman period, specifically between 180 and 200 A.D.
Impact on Amasra’s Heritage
Cultural Significance
This discovery represents a watershed moment for both the Amasra Museum and the region. As Aytekin notes, “This work is very important for the city and museum in terms of its layer, location, and appearance as a whole. It will contribute to the literature and highlight Amasra’s importance as a Roman port city.”
Future Prospects
With Amasra’s castle already featured on the UNESCO Tentative List, this remarkable find is poised to further elevate the region’s historical and cultural significance in the global arena.
A New Home
Today, the Aphrodite statue stands as the crown jewel of the Amasra Museum’s collection, inviting visitors from around the world to admire its timeless beauty and contemplate the rich historical tapestry it represents.
