Tag: byzantine empire

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Rediscovering Saint Nicholas: Uncovering the Origins of Santa and His Legacy at a Byzantine Church in Turkey

Archaeologists have made a remarkable discovery near the original burial site of Saint Nicholas at the Church of St. Nicholas in Antalya Province, Turkey. This ancient church, rooted in the Greek Byzantine Empire, is at the center of a two-year study uncovering artifacts connected to the legendary figure of Saint Nicholas. Known for his miracles and generosity, Saint Nicholas's legacy as the inspiration behind Santa Claus continues to captivate the world. Recent excavations have revealed a limestone sarcophagus, potentially marking his original tomb, promising significant insights into historical sources about his final resting place.

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Ancient Handwriting Analysis Unveils Identity of Famed Byzantine Painter

Experts may have finally solved a centuries-old mystery surrounding the identity of "Manuel Panselinos," a renowned Byzantine painter celebrated for blending spirituality with humanity in Orthodox religious art. New research suggests Panselinos was a nickname for Ioannis Astrapas, a 14th-century artist from Thessaloniki. Using forensic handwriting analysis, scholars linked Astrapas’s script in a Paris manuscript to fresco inscriptions in Mount Athos’s Protato Church, long attributed to Panselinos. The findings shed light on a pivotal figure in Byzantine art, whose work harmonized ancient classical techniques with Orthodox traditions.

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A Journey Through Time: Unearthing Thessaloniki's Past Beneath its Metro

The Thessaloniki Metro, completed after over two decades, unearthed a hidden city beneath modern streets. Over 300,000 artifacts reveal a captivating glimpse into Thessaloniki's rich past, from Roman mosaics to a Hellenistic cemetery, transforming the metro project into an unparalleled archaeological journey.

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Exploring Greece's UNESCO World Heritage Treasures

Delve into the rich cultural tapestry of Greece as we explore its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, from the iconic Acropolis in Athens to the breathtaking monasteries of Meteora. Each site offers a unique glimpse into Greece's storied past and cultural significance. Discover the ancient tales and architectural marvels that make Greece an unmissable destination for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.

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Medieval Homeowners in Bulgaria Treasured 1,500-Year-Old Byzantine Gold

Archaeologists in Bulgaria have unearthed five gold coins dating to the time of the emperor Justinian the Great (ruled from A.D. 527 to 565). Although it is not unusual to discover coins during excavations, these ones were located on the floor of a 10th-century house — suggesting the dwelling's medieval occupants may have kept the coins as a kind of heirloom or artifact.

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Archaeologists Discover Byzantine Mosaic in Turkey

Archaeologists in Turkey's Ordu province have uncovered a stunning Byzantine mosaic within a monastery church dedicated to Saints Constantine and Helena. Dating back to the 5th or 6th centuries AD, this significant discovery highlights the rich cultural heritage of the Byzantine Empire and illustrates the intricate artistry that emerged during this transformative era.