New discoveries have been made during archaeological excavations in the ancient city of Assos, located in the Ayvacık district of Çanakkale province. A weight unit made of lead and dating back to the third century B.C. was unearthed in the Roman-era Nymphaeum (Monumental Fountain) situated in the east of the Agora. The weight unit, which weighs 320 grams, is the largest one found so far. The scales of the weight unit depict the Gryphon, a mythical creature that was used on the city’s coins. Officials also reported that in some of the weight units, the name of the city was written with the abbreviation “ASS.”
Ruins are approximately 7,000 years old and are considered to be well-preserved examples of Greek city-states where students of famous philosophers such as Plato and Aristotle were active.
Aside from repairing and arranging the field, the excavation laboratory also conducts restoration and documentation work. A Turkish team resumed excavations in the ancient city in 1981, following brief U.S.-led excavations between 1881 and 1883. Arslan explained that excavation work has been ongoing for 42 years without interruption since then, and that Assos is one of the oldest excavation centers in Turkey.
Late Roman era discovered in Assos
In late Roman-era Assos, there was a higher prevalence of cattle bones found amongst the everyday pots and pans, as well as small terracotta figurines used in religious rites and animal bones used for nourishment. It was discovered that people consumed animals such as pigs, goats, and sheep, alongside other animals. Further detailed information will be provided by experts on this matter.
During their excavation, the archaeologists discovered a lead weight in the garbage dump between the fountain and the main rock of the fountain structure. This weight is unique to the city of Assos and was used for measuring goods during ancient times. The Assos weight includes a gryphon, a mythological creature, and is heavier than any other weight units found so far. Samples found in Hellenistic tombs were lighter, weighing around 320 grams. It is interesting to note that each city had its own weight units in the past.
