Aspendos archaeologists discover 2,400-year-old possible wrestler tomb

Archaeologists conducting excavations at the ancient city of Aspendos in Turkey have discovered a 2,400-year-old chest-type tomb. The find is located within the newly identified East Necropolis, a cemetery area previously unknown to researchers.

Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy announced that the tomb, which dates to between the late 5th and 4th centuries BC, contains artifacts that suggest the deceased may have been an ancient athlete or wrestler. Among the findings are Aspendos coins featuring depictions of wrestlers grappling. While the presence of these coins provides a strong link to the city’s sporting culture, experts note that further examination of the skeleton is required to confirm the individual's profession.

Aspendos was historically known for its athletic traditions, including a large gymnasium and a stadium built in 200 AD capable of holding 8,000 spectators for wrestling and other contests.