Latest news with #DepartmentofAntiquities
Yahoo
14-06-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
‘Spectacular' temple dedicated to Ancient Greek God uncovered by archaeologists: 2,700-year-old treasures found
Archaeologists have unearthed a 'spectacular' ancient temple housing hundreds of statues dedicated to the Greek God Apollo. The site, known as the Sanctuary of Apollo, is located in a remote valley in Cyprus, and the uncovered artifacts are believed to date back 2,700 years. A team of German experts initially began excavating in the area in 2021, with the finds of their four-year dig disclosed in a statement from the Cyprus Department of Antiquities. '[The sanctuary] was furnished with a lavish abundance of votive statues numbering in the hundreds, some of which were of colossal dimensions,' the statement, translated from Greek to English, read. 'In addition, evidence of other previously unknown types of votive objects was also found, such as marbled glass beads or Egyptian amulets made of faience [tin-glazed pottery].' Apollo, the Greek god of archery and the son of Zeus, was a prominent deity in ancient Greek and Roman mythology. The Sanctuary of Apollo was first discovered by German archaeologist Max Ohnefalsch-Richter in 1885, and was 'considered one of the most spectacular finds of its time.' However, following his 'inadequate' excavations, Ohnefalsch-Richter reburied the site, causing its precise whereabouts to be forgotten for over a century. In 2021, the new team of German archaeologists rediscovered the long-lost temple in the remote valley of Frangrissa, near the ancient city-kingdom of Tamassos. After conducting a more extensive examination of the site, they uncovered treasures that were initially overlooked, including fragments of colossal statues, parts of which appeared to be feet. 'Apparently in 1885 [the votive statues] were not recognized as artifacts in the rush,' the new statement from the Cyprus Department of Antiquities declared. Thus, the new finds 'fundamentally expand our knowledge of this sacred place.' 'Μany statues in the Cyprus Museum and the Royal Ontario Museum at Toronto can be completed with newly found fragments and thus restored to their original appearance,' the statement continued. 'Completely new types of statues have also been documented that were previously unknown from Frangissa. The discovery of clearly larger-than-life feet, for example, means that the existence of colossal male limestone figures from archaic times can now be proven.' 'Such larger-than-life figures were previously only known here in Frangissa made from terracotta, including the famous 'Colossus of Tamassos' in the Cyprus Museum exhibition.' Meanwhile, the discovery of two inscriptions on the bases of the figures dates them to the 6th and 7th centuries BC. 'The discovery of two bases with inscriptions is spectacular,' the statement read. 'One is inscribed with several local Cypro-Syllabic characters, while the other refers in Greek letters to the Ptolemies, the Hellenistic rulers of Egypt who also controlled Cyprus at the time.'
Jordan News
08-06-2025
- Jordan News
Umm al-Jimal Celebrates Eid al-Adha - Jordan News
On Saturday evening, a cultural event was held in the area of Umm al-Jimal in Mafraq Governorate, as part of a series of celebrations organized by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, in cooperation with the Jordan Tourism Board and the Department of Antiquities, across various archaeological and tourist sites in the Kingdom in celebration of Eid al-Adha. اضافة اعلان According to a statement from the Ministry, the event featured a traditional folkloric performance by the 'Northern Badia' troupe, followed by musical segments presented by artists Bashar Al-Sarhan and Ahmad Al-Qarm. The interactive atmosphere highlighted local heritage and supported domestic tourism at one of the most prominent archaeological sites in northern Jordan. The archaeological site of Umm al-Jimal is located in Mafraq Governorate, approximately 90 kilometers northeast of the capital, Amman. It is considered the largest ancient rural settlement in southern Hauran, a region that geographically spans from southern Syria to northern Jordan. In 2024, Umm al-Jimal was inscribed on the World Heritage List. Its outstanding universal value lies in its status as a remarkably preserved example of a Haurani rural settlement that naturally evolved atop the remnants of a former Roman settlement during the 5th century AD, continuing to thrive until the late 8th century. The site's layout—residential and religious in nature—along with its distinctive basalt architecture, reflects the unique local architectural style of the Hauran region. A series of artistic and cultural events were also held on Saturday, including musical evenings at the Roman Theater in Amman. Additional events are scheduled for Sunday in Karak Castle Plaza, Al-Matl Plaza in the village of Umm Qais in Irbid Governorate, and the plaza of Aqaba bin Nafi' in the city of Salt.
Jordan News
08-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Jordan News
The Roman Theater Hosts Artistic Events During Eid al-Adha - Jordan News
On Saturday, the second day of Eid al-Adha, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, in cooperation with the Jordan Tourism Board and the Department of Antiquities, organized a series of unique artistic and cultural evenings at the Roman Theater in downtown Amman. These events are part of a broader initiative aimed at boosting tourism activity at archaeological and historical sites. اضافة اعلان This initiative is part of the Ministry's ongoing efforts to offer a comprehensive tourist experience during the Eid season—one that blends entertainment, art, and culture at venues where the spirit of history meets the joy of the present. During the celebration, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, Dr. Fadi Balawi, emphasized the importance of holding such events at tourist and archaeological sites. He noted that these events strengthen the emotional connection of citizens and visitors with these places, which represent the depth of national identity. He also highlighted how they reflect Jordan's mission of preserving its cultural heritage and transforming it into vibrant, interactive spaces. 'The Roman Theater and other archaeological sites are not merely remnants of the past,' he stated, 'but living platforms for artistic and cultural expression. Events like these offer the public a chance to discover these locations from new perspectives while simultaneously supporting the local tourism economy and preserving heritage.' The Roman Theater hosted vibrant artistic evenings that began Saturday evening. The folklore music groups "Forsan Al-Badiya" and "Ta'aleel" performed traditional songs, followed by a poetry evening with poet Layali Al-Amoush. Artist Saad Abu Tayeh then took the stage, delivering a musical performance full of festive spirit. The festivities will continue on Sunday evening, June 8, 2025—the third day of Eid al-Adha—with performances by the 'Oscar' dance troupe, as well as musical segments featuring singers Rami Shafiq, Tawfiq Al-Dalou, and Raghad Hijazi, in a family-friendly atmosphere open to the public. Located in the heart of Amman, the Roman Theater dates back to the 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Antoninus Pius. The structure consists of three semi-circular tiers and can seat around 6,000 spectators. It was originally used for theatrical, musical, and athletic performances and is renowned for its unique acoustic engineering. In addition to the Amman events, a series of artistic and cultural evenings and concerts were also held on Saturday in Umm al-Jimal in Mafraq Governorate and at Prince Hussein bin Abdullah II Cultural Center in Ma'an. On Sunday, more events will be held at the Karak Castle Plaza, Al-Matl Plaza in the village of Umm Qais in Irbid Governorate, and in the plaza of Aqaba bin Nafi' in the city of Salt.
Jordan News
31-05-2025
- Jordan News
Al-Braizat and Abu Danneh Emphasize Importance of Integrating Key Archaeological Sites into Petra's Tourism Routes
Dr. Suleiman Al-Farajat, Chairman of the Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA), and Dr. Fawzi Abu Danneh, Director General of the Department of Antiquities, stressed the importance of integrating several significant archaeological sites in southern Jordan into Petra's tourism network during a field visit conducted on Saturday. اضافة اعلان According to a statement issued by the PDTRA, the visit included prominent archaeological locations near the road connecting Aqaba and Petra, making them potential main stops that could be linked to existing tourist routes. These sites contain skeletal remains and evidence of early settled life and agricultural practices, marking the transition from a hunting-based lifestyle to farming in human history. During the visit, Al-Braizat emphasized the importance of expanding the visitor experience in Petra to include sites like Jabal Al-Tahkim and Adhruh. He affirmed that sustainable tourism begins with involving local communities and preserving the identity of the place. He also called for developing a comprehensive vision to connect these sites to tourism paths that tell stories supporting global understanding of Nabataean and Islamic civilizations in the region. For his part, Abu Danneh highlighted the archaeological and scientific significance of these sites, noting that comprehensive scientific studies are being prepared to document them and include them in national and international heritage preservation programs. The delegation discussed several proposals to develop these sites, including infrastructure improvements, trail and site rehabilitation in cooperation with local communities, and the potential repurposing of 'Bayt Nazal' as a regional center for Nabataean heritage and archaeological documentation. The visit is part of integrated efforts to maximize the benefit of the cultural and historical legacy in the Petra region, within a sustainable development vision that reinforces national identity and supports economic and social growth. --- (Petra )
Libya Review
29-05-2025
- General
- Libya Review
Ancient Coins Discovered In Libya's Benghazi
Libya's Department of Antiquities in Benghazi has announced the discovery of 24 ancient copper and bronze coins in an archaeological site located in the western part of the city. According to a statement issued by the department, researcher Jalal Al-Obaidi from the Technical Affairs Division was responsible for cleaning and categorising the coins based on weight and type. He also examined the inscriptions and engravings on both sides of the coins, helping determine their features and historical periods. Out of the total, 12 coins were found in good condition, with clearly visible details that allow for further analysis and study. These well-preserved pieces are considered a significant addition to the department's collection of archaeological artefacts. The department emphasised the cultural and historical value of such discoveries, which shed light on the region's ancient trade and monetary systems. The coins are believed to date back to different historical periods, possibly spanning Roman or Greek eras, though official dating is still under way. This discovery adds to a series of recent archaeological finds across eastern Libya, where experts continue to work in challenging conditions to document and preserve the country's rich heritage. Despite ongoing security and economic challenges, Libya's archaeologists remain committed to protecting historical treasures for future generations. Tags: Ancient CoinsAntiquitiesbenghaziHeritagelibya
