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Unique amulet of demon slayer discovered in Turkey: archaeologists call the discovery sensational

Maria Tsikhotska

Unique amulet of demon slayer discovered in Turkey: archaeologists call the discovery sensational
An artifact found in the ancient city of Adrianople is of exceptional importance for understanding the religious culture of that period. Source: Live Science

A unique Christian artifact was discovered during archaeological excavations in Turkey. A fifth-century bronze pendant with an unexpected image has become a real find for scientists.

The artifact, found in the ancient city of Adrianople, is of exceptional importance for understanding the religious culture of that period. The pendant depicts King Solomon on horseback, striking the devil with a spear. This is the first such artifact discovered in Anatolia. This is reported by Live Science.

The peculiarity of the find is the inscriptions in ancient Greek on both sides. One side proclaims the victory of good over evil, and the other contains the names of four angels: Azrael, Gabriel, Michael, and Israfil.

Archaeological research has shown that the pendant had the status of an amulet, which, according to the beliefs of the time, was supposed to protect the owner from danger. Scientists consider it a symbol of religious and military power.

Leading researcher Ersin Çelikbaş emphasizes the special value of the artifact. Solomon, an important figure in the three world religions, is represented not only as a ruler, but also as a prophet and a military leader.

The site of the discovery, Adrianople, an ancient settlement in Paphlagonia, is of particular importance. Archaeologists assume that a cavalry unit was based here, and the pendant may be related to military activities.

The dating of the artifact to the fifth century coincides with the period when the city was part of the Byzantine Empire. Previously, a similar pendant had been found only in Jerusalem, indicating the importance of Hadrianople as a religious center.

Currently, the unique pendant is stored in the laboratory and is awaiting transfer to the museum exhibition. This discovery adds new touches to the understanding of religious culture and symbolism of ancient civilizations.

Scientists emphasize that the artifact demonstrates the complexity and versatility of religious beliefs in the early Christian period, linking biblical stories with local cultural traditions.