Skip to content

Japanese learners experiencing archaeological digs

Archaeologists hailing from Japan, involved in the Üc̈höyük excavations within the Bolvadin district of the western province of Afyonkarahisar, took along three apprentice archaeologists this year to allow them hands-on experience in the field.

Japanese learners engaged in archaeological digs
Japanese learners engaged in archaeological digs

Japanese learners experiencing archaeological digs

Japanese-Turkish Collaboration in Uçhoğlu Excavations: 2021 Season and Heritage for the Future Project

Overview

The archaeological site of Uçhoğlu, situated in the district of Bolvadin, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey, has been the centre of attention for Japanese archaeologists. The site, rich in historical and cultural significance, has been the focus of excavations since 2019, as part of the "Heritage for the Future" project. This initiative aims to not only uncover the past but also to preserve cultural heritage for future generations.

Details of the 2021 Excavation Season

1. The Search for Puruşhanda - The primary objective of the 2021 season was to continue the search for the lost city of Puruşhanda, a significant urban centre during the Hellenistic period.

2. International Collaboration - The excavation team included Japanese scholars, Professor Satoshi Urano and Professor Yukinori Fukatsu, who joined the dig last year, along with students from Rikkyo University. - Turkish and Japanese scientists, university students, and local community members worked together at the Uçhoğyuk site.

3. Support and Participation - The excavation was supported by Selçuk University, the Provincial Culture and Tourism Directorate, the Bolvadin District Governor's Office, and the Municipality.

4. Notable Discoveries - Several notable discoveries were made during the 2021 season, including artifacts that shed light on the trade networks and cultural exchange in the region. - Excavations uncovered evidence of successive occupation layers, providing insights into the site's historical development.

5. First-hand Experience - The Japanese students, who were participating in their first excavation at Uçhoğyuk, gained valuable experience and made good friendships. - Koharu Egawa and Rei Uchiyama, two of the Japanese students, noted the challenges posed by the hot weather but expressed satisfaction with their experience.

6. Contribution and Momentum - The team from Japan has contributed to the gain of momentum in the Uçhoğyuk excavations. - The excavation involves classification and assessment of findings at the site.

Heritage for the Future Project

1. Goals - The "Heritage for the Future" project is designed to not only excavate and study archaeological sites like Uçhoğlu but also to ensure their preservation for future generations. - This project involves collaboration between local communities, researchers, and governmental agencies to promote cultural heritage awareness and conservation.

2. Activities - Outreach and education programs were implemented to engage local communities with the archaeological site and its significance. - The project also included workshops on cultural heritage management and conservation techniques.

3. Impact - The project has contributed significantly to increasing awareness and appreciation of Turkey's rich cultural heritage. - It has also fostered international collaboration in archaeology, enhancing understanding and preservation of sites like Uçhoğlu.

Conclusion

The 2021 season of Japanese-Turkish archaeology excavations at Uçhoğlu, Afyonkarahisar, continued the search for the lost city of Puruşhanda and contributed substantially to the understanding of the site and its cultural context. The "Heritage for the Future" project serves as a model for balancing archaeological research with preservation and community engagement, ensuring that these valuable sites are protected for future generations.

Read also:

Latest

Unreasonable Anger Over This Situation?

Angry About This Situation?

Some people may not be as tall as others, just as some are drawn to poetry and others to science or engineering, with preferences for country music and history books varying widely. However, it's still shocking when people exhibit rudeness or harbor outdated beliefs.