Kütahya’s Ancient Past Forges Ahead Into the Future
Kütahya’s 5,000-Year History on Display at Archeology Museum
The archeology museum at Kütahya Dumlupınar University is providing a glimpse into the city’s rich history through its collection of ancient artifacts. Established on the university campus, the museum showcases items that date back thousands of years.
The museum, which took two years of work to complete under the guidance of Kütahya Dumlupınar University’s Faculty of Fine Arts, is located next to the Bedesten in Evliya Çelebi Campus. It displays artifacts from the Early Bronze Age and Roman Period.
One of the highlights of the museum is its reflection of the 5,000-year history of the Seyitömer Tumulus, situated near the town of Seyitömer in the center of Kütahya. The tumulus is known for its abundance of ceramic production materials.
Professor Dr. Levent Mercin, the Dean of DPU Faculty of Fine Arts, emphasized that Kütahya has been home to numerous civilizations throughout history, making it a city of archaeological significance.
The museum, which opened about a month ago, has already attracted attention from both students and their families. With 40,000 students on campus, including 10,000 international students, the museum serves as an educational and cultural hub.
Dean Mercin stated that the primary goal of the museum is to promote the historical and cultural richness of Turkey, particularly that of Kütahya. He expressed his delight in seeing students taking photos inside the museum and sharing them on social media.
An additional feature of the museum is the presence of an archeopark area, where visitors can admire stone and marble works that are several thousands of years old.
Dr. Fatma Çağım Özcan, the museum director, explained that the collection sheds light on the city’s 5,000-year history. It includes nearly 300 artifacts from the Early Bronze Age and Roman Period, with a focus on terracotta and stone artifacts unearthed in the Seyitömer Mound excavations. Notable pieces include three-legged pots, spouted jugs, bowls, and brushes used in ceramic production, as well as tombstones and votive stones dedicated to gods and goddesses such as Zeus, Cybele, and Hecate.
Some of the exhibits also offer insights into the beliefs and religious practices of the Roman Period.
The Seyitömer Mound, which dates back to 3000 BC, is located 26 kilometers from the city center. Salvage excavations in the mound began in 1989 with the aim of accessing the lignite deposits below it. The excavation was carried out by the Afyonkarahisar Museum Directorate between 1990 and 1995. Since 2006, the excavation has been led by the DPU Archeology Department, supported by a team of lecturers, students, and workers. Since 2019, rescue excavations have been conducted by the Kütahya Museum Directorate.
The archeology museum at Kütahya Dumlupınar University not only preserves and presents the city’s historical treasures but also contributes to promoting Kütahya and Turkey’s cultural heritage. With its impressive collection and educational offerings, it serves as a valuable resource for students and visitors alike.
