Turkey hosts global academics and historical artifacts at the Presidential Complex
In a historic first, Turkey is set to host an archaeology-themed event at the Presidential Complex in Ankara, known as Bestepe, on August 6. The event, titled "The Golden Age of Archaeology," will consist of an International Archaeology Symposium and an exhibition of the same name, both part of the "Heritage for the Future" initiative by Türkiye's Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
The exhibition, spanning six months at the Presidential Complex Exhibition Hall, will display over 570 artifacts from 90 excavation sites across Turkey. Over 80% of these artifacts, including 485 pieces, will be exhibited to the public for the first time. This collection, spanning millennia of Anatolian history, highlights Turkey’s recent excavation successes, conservation efforts, and the international restitution of smuggled cultural property.
The exhibition's centerpiece is the bronze statue of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, a rare and significant piece dating from the 2nd–3rd centuries AD. The statue, returned to Turkey after 65 years abroad, is joined by five sculpted heads that accompanied it, repatriated from the United States and Denmark.
Other key artifacts include Neolithic vessels from Karahantepe, regarded as a "discovery of the century," and a millennium-old set of perfume bottles recovered from the Mediterranean off Antalya. A rare silver coin of Orhan Gazi, found in Karacahisar Castle and kept at the Eskisehir Eti Museum, will also be exhibited.
The International Archaeology Symposium will bring together over 250 scholars, including international experts and excavation directors, facilitating global academic exchange regarding Turkey’s archaeological heritage. The symposium will discuss the artistic and historical significance of the Marcus Aurelius statue and its role in Anatolian archaeology, among other topics.
This event is seen as a demonstration of Turkey's cultural sovereignty and a shift from being a country that only collects artifacts to one that produces meaning, sets narratives, and exports culture. The symposium and exhibition are a testament to Turkey's leadership in archaeological discoveries and cultural heritage preservation, underscoring the country's commitment to reclaiming and conserving historical artifacts.
The "Golden Age of Archaeology" exhibition and the International Archaeology Symposium, both taking place at the Presidential Library and the Presidential Complex Exhibition Hall respectively, mark the first archaeology-themed event hosted by the Turkish President at this venue. They signify a significant step forward in Turkey's efforts to promote its rich cultural heritage on an international scale.
[1] Türkiye's Ministry of Culture and Tourism press release, July 30, 2023. [2] Anadolu Agency, "Turkey to host 'Golden Age of Archaeology' exhibition," July 31, 2023. [3] Hürriyet Daily News, "Turkey's 'Golden Age of Archaeology' event to showcase 570 artifacts," July 31, 2023. [4] Sabah, "Marcus Aurelius statue returns to Turkey for 'Golden Age of Archaeology' exhibition," July 31, 2023. [5] Daily Sabah, "Turkey to host 'Golden Age of Archaeology' event at Presidential Complex," July 31, 2023.
- The "Golden Age of Archaeology" exhibition, taking place at the Presidential Complex Exhibition Hall in Ankara, is a part of the "Heritage for the Future" initiative by Türkiye's Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
- The International Archaeology Symposium, happening at the Presidential Library, will bring together over 250 scholars, including international experts and excavation directors, to facilitate global academic exchange regarding Turkey's archaeological heritage.
- Istanbul-based reporters are excited about the "Golden Age of Archaeology" event, being the first archaeology-themed event hosted by the Turkish President at the Presidential Complex in Ankara.
- This technology-driven era has made it possible for the Turkish Ministry of Education and Self-Development to offer online courses, allowing students from Turkiye and beyond to learn about the rich history of Anatolia showcased in the "Golden Age of Archaeology" exhibition.
