Depiction of Greek Goddess Hecate Found in 3,000-Year-Old Temple Complex in Turkey

Archaeologists excavating a 3,000-year-old temple complex in Turkey’s southwestern Mugla province have uncovered a depiction of the goddess Hecate.

The discovery was made at Lagina, an ancient Greek town and religious centre of the Polis of Stratonicea. Pilgrims from Stratonicea would visit Lagina seasonally to worship at the main temple dedicated to Hecate.

The rituals in Lagina included a "Key-Carrying" ceremony, in which young girls travelled from Lagina to Stratonicea to express their devotion. Upon their return, the girl carrying the key (the kleidophoros) would unlock the city gates, signalling the start of religious festivities.

Hecate, a goddess worshipped in ancient Athens as a protector of the household, is typically depicted holding torches, keys, and snakes or accompanied by dogs. Later portrayals show her as three-formed, symbolizing the sky, earth, and underworld.

Recent excavations at Lagina are part of the "Heritage for the Future Project," which focuses on the sanctuary's ceremonial gate and entrance structure. According to Prof. Dr. Bilal Söğüt, the team discovered a Hecate torch motif on a column and Corinthian capitals dating from the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Notably, a figurative Corinthian column capital from the 2nd century AD was unearthed for the first time.

These findings shed new light on the Hecate cult and pilgrim practices. Future investigations aim to uncover the sacred road worshipers use, which could enhance the site’s appeal as a tourist destination.

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