Ancient Wine Production Center Discovered in Turkey

Archaeologists have uncovered a significant ancient wine production facility near a castle in Turkey, with a history that might stretch back around 1,600 years. This discovery was reported on October 16 by Anadolu Agency, a state-run news source.

The site is situated in a mountainous region close to the village of Oymakli, in southeastern Türkiye. Among the findings, researchers found structures used for processing grapes, a water tank, and a grindstone.

The building’s foundations indicate its origins trace back to the 4th century AD, coinciding with the spread of Christianity in Turkey and the rise of Constantinople as a new power hub.

This excavation was initiated after the discovery of several artifacts deemed historically significant, supported by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The area of this Roman settlement spans approximately 37 acres and lies near Kahta Castle, which dates back to the 2nd century BC and was built for the Kingdom of Commagene, a Greek-Iranian monarchy.

Mehmet Alkan, the director of the state museum, noted that the foundations are remarkably well-preserved, even made of irregular stones. He speculated that this site might have operated on an industrial scale during Roman times and, due to its proximity to the castle, could have functioned as a residential area at some point.

Authorities intend to continue excavating this site and aim to register it as an archaeological protected area. This discovery adds to numerous ancient finds in Turkey in recent months, including large baths linked to a Christian bishop in the ancient city of Olympos and an ancient Roman bath uncovered earlier this summer by a gardener who previously found mosaics in the area.