Ancient 1800-Year-Old Monument Linked to Astragalomancy Unearthed in Turkey

Discovery of a Stone Monument in Kibyra

According to НВ — Техно: In 2024, archaeologists uncovered a limestone monument dating back approximately 1800 years in the ancient city of Kibyra, located in southwestern Turkey. This artifact features inscriptions on all four sides and is associated with the ancient practice of astragalomancy-a form of divination using the ankle bones of animals such as sheep, goats, and calves.

The monument originally stood in Kibyra’s marketplace before being incorporated into a chapel wall over time. Research confirming this discovery was published in the academic journal Gephyra. The monument is dedicated to Hermes, the deity revered as the protector of travelers, commerce, and divination.

The Ritual of Astragalomancy

The ankle bones used in astragalomancy have a distinctive cube-like shape with defined edges, which were inscribed with numbers for divinatory purposes. Practitioners would cast five of these bones simultaneously and interpret the results by comparing them to the inscriptions on the monument. Similar artifacts have been found at other ancient settlements, including:

• Termessos
• Kremna
• Sagalassos
• Perge

The inscriptions on the Kibyra monument closely resemble those found at Kremna, though with some grammatical differences. A dedication at the top of the stone reveals that the monument was funded by a patron. The divination rites involving this monument were primarily intended for personal guidance. This find offers valuable insight into the ancient regional traditions of fortune-telling.

This discovery highlights the significance of exploring ancient cultures and their ritualistic customs, particularly those related to divination, which played a meaningful role in everyday life. The monument not only reflects religious and cultural practices but also demonstrates the connection between commerce and ritual in ancient civilizations. Studying such artifacts can deepen our understanding of the social hierarchies and spiritual beliefs of past societies.