Exploring History: Edirne Archaeology Museum Journey
The Edirne Archeology and Ethnography Museum is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, offering a deep dive into the rich past of the city through its impressive collection of artifacts.
Home to 29 thousand pieces, the museum showcases a wide range of archaeological and ethnographic works, including the family sarcophagus from the Roman period and remnants from the Ancient City of Enez excavations. Among the notable pieces is the Nike statuette, a true gem of the collection.
Museum Director Şahan Kırçın shed light on the significance of the family sarcophagus, emphasizing its importance as a discovery from 1977 during infrastructure work on Old Istanbul Street. The inscription on the sarcophagus, belonging to Bassos, the son of Thedolos, dates back to the 2nd century, providing valuable insights into the city’s history.
Kırçın further highlighted the excavation findings near the Edirne Castle, revealing a necropolis outside the main living area, offering crucial historical details about Edirne. Despite facing limitations due to construction activities, the museum continues to unearth important artifacts that shed light on the city’s past.
One of the museum’s prized possessions is the Nike statuette found in Enez district, discovered in a mosaic-covered building in 1983. Alongside the Nike statue, the excavation also unearthed a Serapis statue, a bronze woman statue, and various other artifacts, pointing towards a rich historical landscape. The building has been dubbed the ‘Roman rich villa’ by architects, with its origins traced back to the Hellenistic period, making the Nike statuette a remarkable piece from 2,000 years ago.
The Edirne Archeology and Ethnography Museum continue to preserve and showcase these invaluable artifacts, offering visitors a captivating journey through the city’s fascinating history.
