Near the ancient city of Gordion in Turkey, archaeologists have discovered a royal tomb from the eighth century BC, believed to belong to a relative of the legendary King Midas. The remarkable archaeological finds represent a new chapter in the study of the Phrygian civilization and their burial customs.
The mound, eight meters high and 60 meters in diameter, contains the cremated remains of a high-ranking royal, according to a press conference on June 3. Dozens of rare artifacts were also discovered, including bronze cauldrons and jugs, some still attached to the walls of the burial chamber with iron nails.
“Based on these artifacts, we estimate that this is a member of the royal family associated with Gordion and Midas,” said Mehmet Nuri Ersoy, Turkey’s Minister of Culture and Tourism.
Gordion was the capital of the kingdom of Phrygia, which existed from 1200 to 675 BC. Rulers like Gordias and his son Midas are remembered in myths and historical anecdotes — including the famous Gordian Knot, which, according to legend, was cut by Alexander the Great.
According to archaeologist Yucel Şenyurt, this is the oldest evidence of cremation at the Gordion site.
“This practice indicates different burial customs and confirms the high status of the person buried in this mound,” he said.
The tomb, the 47th to be excavated at Gordion, further testifies to the wealth and organization of Phrygian society. Its location in close proximity to the so-called “Midas Mound,” the largest known tomb at Gordion, suggests possible family ties to the famous king.
The excavated artifacts have been transferred to the Gordion Museum, where they will be preserved and later exhibited to the public. Excavations at the site have been ongoing for 75 years, but as experts point out, much of the terrain has still not been explored.
“The area that has not yet been excavated is significantly larger than that which has been worked on,” said Senjurt, hinting that Gordion still hides many undiscovered chapters of the ancient past.
