1700-Year-Old Iron Trident Unearthed in the Ancient City of Assos, Turkey
The ancient Greek city of Assos on the Aegean coast of modern Turkey is an interesting place where many archaeological have been made. In Assos, we find a magnificent ancient temple dedicated to Goddess Athena, an ancient theater, massive Hellenic columns, and well-preserved city walls.
Archaeological excavations in the ancient city of Assos are often rewarding, and the finds are intriguing. One can expect to discover Greek and Byzantine artifacts shedding light on the history of this region. For example, during the latest dig, scientists unearthed an interesting 1,700-year-old iron trident in the fountain structure called “Nymphaion” (eastern fountain).
Archaeologists say the size and shape of the trident indicate it was used for fishing. In an interview with Anadolu Agency, Professor Nurettin Arslan explained: “This is the first time we find such materials in Assos.
Because, as it is known, the most rapidly destroyed materials in ancient cities were tools and equipment made of iron. However, this trident found in this structure is an important example in that it was found almost completely intact. This is an important example.” Although we know that such tools were used a lot in ancient times, we can say that it is an essential work since the examples that have survived to the present day are very rare.
As far as we know, it is told, or we see in the descriptions that such tools were used in ancient times to catch big fish in small boats by lighting them with a torch at night in the sea.”
The researcher added it is challenging to determine the place of production because the harpoon is an iron tool.
“Because iron is a tool that is found everywhere and produced everywhere. Therefore, it is difficult to say anything definitive about its production place, but it is found in many different places or areas in Assos. There is a lot of iron slag or evidence of iron working. Therefore, it is possible that this piece was produced in Assos,” Professor Arslan told AA.
The trident is often associated with the god Poseidon in Greek mythology. However, one should remember that the trident was an important symbol to many ancient civilizations, not just the Greeks. In Mongolia, a trident decorating the stele installed at Genghis Khan’s birthplace was believed to have brought fortune and triumph to his cavalry some 800 years ago. In Hindu mythology, the god Shiva is often depicted with a trident in his hand, reflecting his function as creator, destroyer, and preserver.
