Aizanoi, nestled in the Çavdarhisar district of Kütahya, Türkiye, is yielding treasures from its rich history. Among the latest finds during excavations in this ancient city are the exquisitely preserved statue heads of Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, and Dionysus, the god of wine.

The ongoing excavation, led by archaeology professor Gokhan Coskun, has already uncovered over 100 statue pieces, some reaching lengths of 2-3 meters. What sets this season apart is the discovery of well-preserved heads of Aphrodite and Dionysus, adding a layer of excitement to the archaeological endeavors.

Aizanoi, dating back to 3,000 B.C., was a significant city of the Aizanitis people in ancient Phrygia. Although various powers, including Pergamum and Bithynia, held sway over the region during the Hellenistic period, it eventually fell under Roman control in 133 B.C. One of its crown jewels is the Temple of Zeus, a marvel of ancient Greek mythology.

The newly unearthed statue heads, part of a collection discovered three years ago, showcasing remarkable craftsmanship.

Coskun notes the meticulous preservation of these pieces, emphasizing the quality of their condition. To date, the excavation has revealed two Aphrodite and three Dionysus statue heads.

As the current excavation season, initiated last April, draws to a close by the end of this month, the discoveries in Aizanoi continue to captivate researchers and enthusiasts alike, shedding light on the city’s illustrious past.