Unearthing a 1st-Century Cremation Tomb at Apollonia ad Rhyndacum
Archaeologists in Turkey have uncovered a cremation tomb dating back to the 1st century AD, located within the seating area of an ancient theater in Apollonia ad Rhyndacum. This coastal settlement lies in the village of Golyazi, Nilüfer district, Bursa province. The theater, originally constructed during the Hellenistic period, could accommodate approximately 5,000 spectators, with its final phase of construction completed in the early 2nd century AD.
The tomb consists of a clay brick chest topped by a gabled roof made from terracotta tiles. Excavations began in 2021 under the authorization of Turkey's Ministry of Culture and Tourism and with support from the Nilüfer Municipality. The cremated remains inside the burial have been the focus of ongoing study.
Archaeologists have restored 42 rows of seating on the hillside of Zambaktepe overlooking Lake Uluabat. Professor Derya Sahin highlighted the unusual placement of the tomb, stating:
"Why would a tomb be situated within the theater area when the city already had a designated necropolis? This burial must have held special importance, possibly indicating a connection to sacred status or heroic recognition."
She also noted that because the remains were cremated, they provide limited information, and the condition of the bones makes it difficult to determine the number of individuals interred.
Discovery of a 4th-Century BCE Rock-Cut Burial Chamber
In addition, archaeologists found a burial monument from the 4th century BCE in Balıkesir province, near Burhaniye district, about 9 kilometers southeast of Adramyttium. This rock-hewn funerary chamber measures 3.5 by 2.8 meters and contains three stone beds with headrests and carved legs. Dr. Hüseyin Murat Özgen described this find as a hybrid funerary monument.
Professor Sahin added that the ruins around the theater are not as well preserved as those in abandoned ancient cities. She suggested that additional structures, such as a temple or road, could still lie hidden nearby. The archaeological team plans to complete this season’s work by late November 2023.
These significant finds—the 1st-century cremation tomb at Apollonia ad Rhyndacum and the 4th-century BCE burial chamber near Burhaniye—shed light on the rich cultural and historical fabric of this region in western Turkey. Ongoing research promises to deepen our understanding of ancient funerary customs as well as the social and religious life of these communities. The discoveries carry potential to greatly enhance knowledge of the area's historical development and cultural heritage.
In addition to the recent discovery in Apollonia ad Rhyndacum, archaeologists are also investigating a fascinating tomb from the 4th century BCE near Adramyttium. This site, featuring a rock-cut burial chamber, offers insights into ancient burial practices and further enriches our understanding of the region's historical significance.