Researchers decode the 2,600-Year-Old Materan inscription in Turkey
Researchers have successfully decoded a 2,600-year-old inscription from the Arslan Kaya monument in Turkey, revealing references to the Phrygian goddess Materan.
This significant finding, led by Professor Mark Munn at Pennsylvania State University, showcases the cultural and religious importance of Materan, who was integral to Phrygian worship between 1200 and 600 B.C.
Despite years of weathering and damage, the inscription indicates a strong connection between the Phrygians and Materan, also recognised by later civilisations such as the Greeks and Romans as the "Mother of the Gods" and "Magna Mater", respectively.
The Arslan Kaya monument features carvings of lions and sphinxes, emblematic of strength in Phrygian culture. The deciphered text likely formed part of a larger inscription, potentially elucidating the context of the monument's commissioning and the deity's relevance.
The region’s Phrygian heritage, revered by successive cultures, underlines the deep-rooted tradition surrounding Materan, especially during the era of Lydian influence.
The inscription’s interpretation faced challenges for over a century, attributed to its damaged condition. Munn's analysis involved combining detailed photographs and historical documentation, aided by optimal lighting conditions during a specific date capture in April 2024.
According to Rostyslav Oreshko, a lecturer from the Practical School of Advanced Studies in France, Munn’s findings affirm existing scholarly assessments from the 19th century regarding the goddess’s name. This work not only outlines the significance of Materan but also serves to reinforce prior interpretations of Phrygian culture.
