Artifacts in Prague
A professor of archeology from Italias Catania University Lagona points to the fact that the earliest artifacts found during the 1925 excavations were taken to Prague, from among the heritage of this biggest ancient harbor city in the Mediterranean. Fortunately, a part of the heritage is displayed in various museums, especially in Istanbul, she adds.
A large number of artifacts taken out during the excavations, overseen by the Czech committee in 1925, were brought to Prague. But those are parts of the Mediterranean civilization and they belong here. They should have never been taken away from here, she told, and pointed out the need for the completion of Aliaga museum, already under construction.
Historic site is private property area
They have come across some very interesting findings and are continuing the chronological studies for the scientific analysis, Lagona says. However, she complains that their progress is halted due to property ownership issues since part of the historic site is under private property.
We are expecting that the private ownership of the historic site is lifted through a barter agreement and permits are issued in order to start new excavations near Acropolis and the harbor to discover where the already excavated road with pillars is headed to, and to analyze the naval and ceramics activities, she told.
History of excavations in Kyme
* In late 19th century, Demostere Baltazzi, an Italian landowner in Nemrut, made the first investigations in Kyme.
* Thedore Reinach, In late 19th century, dug testing pits and started the first significant excavation. Necropolis, located behind the hill, was brought to light and a few statues of stone were found. These artifacts were then transferred to the newly opened Istanbul Archeological museum.
* In 1925, the Czech team directed by archeologist Prof. Antonin Salach from the University of Prague, started excavations. A small temple and a small house; the writers house named after clay work findings, a harbor structure which is almost completely under water and a theatre located on the north hills southern side, a very small portion of which is kept to date were brought to light. Most of the artifacts were taken to Prague museum.
After Prof. Salachs death, the excavations were paused for several years. The Czech team later applied to Ankara for excavation permits, but was refused.
* Until 1952 no further excavations were done in Kyme, except Senior Prof. Dr. Ekrem Akarguls short investigation excavation. Akargul excavated in Foca district between 1952 and 1955.
* Izmir Archeological Museum team , active between 1979 and 1984 made new excavations and discovered new findings.
* In 1985 the systematic excavations began with Prof. Lagona and her team. Lagona and team continued the excavations in cooperation with Izmir Archeological Museum between 1985 and 1986, and continued the work on their own until this day. (BB/NB/EK)
