Kastamonu: Relief stones from an ancient temple dedicated to the Roman god Zeus have been preserved within the walls and foundations of buildings in a village located in Trkiye's Black Sea region. These stones, cherished and protected by locals, continue to draw attention, according to sources.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Museum Directorate for the Kastamonu province reported that the temple was founded by the pagan priest Gaios during the reign of Roman Emperor Caracalla (AD 198-217), part of the Severan dynasty. The temple's construction was completed in 279 by Alexandros, Gaios' son. These stones, part of the temple's remains, were historically used by villagers in constructing the foundations and walls of their houses. The directorate has since numbered and registered these artifacts, which continue to captivate visitors.

The temple, situated within the neighborhood of Meyre, also known as the Meyre Zeus Temple, is of significant importance to the region. Mustafa Cetin, the headman for the village of Aktastekke, noted that the temple had sustained damage over the centuries, with stones repurposed for village homes. In 2007, a cleanup led by the museum directorate documented and safeguarded the stone reliefs, with hopes that future renovations will enhance regional tourism.

Villager Cemal Cetin expressed that the locals are committed to preserving the temple stones integrated into their homes, and there is a collective hope for future excavations at the site. Another villager, Necmettin Sahin, revealed that similar relief stones remain undisturbed within the foundation of his family home, featuring carved figures, including tree and animal motifs.