Whispers of Vikings echo here. We stand before the ruins of the lost city of Bathonea a place shrouded in mystery and intrigue. For centuries these stones lay silent guardians of a forgotten past. Now however we peel back the layers of time. Bathonea is not a myth. It’s a real place. It existed on the shores of the Sea of Marmara near present-day Istanbul.
Archaeologists initially believed Bathonea to be Rhegion. That was before new evidence emerged. This evidence suggested a different identity. It pointed to the Hellenistic-Roman city of Bathonea. The name itself is a puzzle. It likely comes from Pliny the Elder’s mention of a river named Bathynias. It also links to a monk named Theophanes referring to the region as Bathyasos. Both seem to be variations of the hekatostys. This is the name of a local administrative division in ancient Byzantion.
Excavations at Bathonea are ongoing. They continue to reveal startling discoveries. These include traces of the Varangian Guard elite Norsemen who served in Constantinople. We have found evidence of their presence here in this lost city. Amazing isn’t it? Imagine these fierce warriors walking these very grounds. Their footsteps mingling with those of Roman citizens.
The year is 680 AD. The Umayyad invasion threatens. Our customs building was destroyed. The findings at Bathonea speak to this brutal event. They represent the earliest evidence of the Umayyads’ attempts to conquer Istanbul. This ancient customs building is more than just a tax office. It’s a silent witness to a pivotal moment in history. A testament to the enduring strength of the Byzantine Empire.
Beyond the Viking artifacts and the Umayyad siege, a large cistern stands testament to Roman ingenuity. Its 7000 cubic meter capacity is breathtaking. There is also a Roman-era martyr’s tomb. This was later converted into a Christian basilica. The mosaics are truly remarkable. The intricate designs offer a glimpse into the religious beliefs of the era. A magnificent hospital stands near here. Medicine bottles and materials show the advanced medical practices of the time.
The excavations at Bathonea are far from over. Each new discovery adds more layers to the city’s rich tapestry. The story of Bathonea unfolds slowly. It is a story of Vikings and Romans of Christians and Muslims. It’s a story of resilience and endurance. It’s a story of a lost city found again. A story we continue to uncover together.