Ankara: Trkiye leads the world in archaeological discoveries, both on land and underwater, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Wednesday at the International Archaeology Symposium in Ankara. Since 2002, Erdogan stated, the country has secured the return of 13,291 historical artifacts to their homeland. "Our experts will first explore every inch of our country, then every place the Turk has ever set foot, meticulously recording our cultural heritage," he added.
According to Anadolu Agency, the symposium, held at the presidential complex, brings together more than 250 scholars, including 29 international experts. Among them, 33 academics-17 from abroad-are scheduled to present research. Excavation directors from across Trkiye will also convene for the event. As part of the symposium, the 'Golden Age of Archaeology' exhibition opened to the public, featuring 485 artifacts from various ancient cities displayed for the first time. A highlight of the exhibit is the bronze statue of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius, which was returned to Trkiye after 65 years.
President Erdogan emphasized the significance of Anatolia as a region rich in intertwined beliefs, cultures, languages, and colors, forming the collective memory of humanity. With nearly 800 field studies conducted annually, academics have elevated archaeological activities to a significant level in terms of both scope and content. Over the past seven years, the number of excavation directorates in Trkiye has increased from 151 to over 250. In 2024 alone, significant employment support was provided to archaeological activities with over 2,000 experts and more than 3,000 workers involved in excavation projects.
Erdogan also announced the launch of the National Inventory Project for Turkish-Islamic Era Tombstones and Inscriptions this month. This initiative aims to identify, document, and compile tombstones and inscriptions from this period across Anatolia into a national database. The Turkish president highlighted efforts to restore cultural heritage both locally and globally, while also reclaiming artifacts smuggled out of Trkiye.
Turkish Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, attending the event, commented on the significance of the Marcus Aurelius statue. He stated: "When you stand next to the Marcus Aurelius ... you will not only be seeing an archaeological artifact, but also a symbol of the return of a heritage belonging to these lands after a long absence - a success that reflects our state's determination to protect its cultural legacy."