A team of archaeologists has made an exciting discovery in the Sungurlu district of Çorum, Turkey.
During an excavation related to local infrastructure work, they uncovered a 2,000-year-old weight press stone, known as a litus.
What makes this find particularly fascinating is that the stone features a relief of Dionysus, the ancient Greek god of wine.
This discovery provides a rare glimpse into the region's historical connection to wine production.
The litus was used during the Roman period as part of the wine-making process, Anatolian Archaeology reports.
What sets this particular litus apart is the intricate relief of Dionysus, a deity celebrated as the "god of wine" and the "god of vintage" in Greek mythology.
According to Boğazkale Museum Director Resul İbiş, “Weight press stones, which we call litus, are found in large numbers in the region. These are parts of the mechanism used especially in wine production. However, the important thing here is that there is a Dionysus relief on the front side of the stone.”
This is the first time such a detailed depiction of Dionysus has been found on a wine press stone.
The presence of the god’s image on this stone directly ties the ancient process of winemaking to the mythological figure most associated with it.
An Artistic Depiction of Dionysus
The relief on the stone portrays Dionysus in an unusual form, with some of his features resembling those of Medusa, a mythical figure known for her hair of snakes.
Adding to the intrigue are the bunches of grapes depicted as hanging from Dionysus’ ears, symbolizing his deep association with viticulture.
Dated to the 1st to 3rd century AD, the litus with the Dionysus relief is now on display at the Boğazkale Museum.
