Discover the captivating world of Aksaray Museum in Turkey, a gateway to the Cappadocia region, where a remarkable mummy section unveils a fascinating collection of 13 local mummies. What sets this display apart is the inclusion of not only adult humans but also babies and even a cat, believed to be a thousand years old. Aksaray Museum proudly holds the distinction of being Turkey’s only museum with a dedicated mummy section, offering a unique glimpse into the region’s rich history and ancient burial practices.
Aksaray’s Fascinating 11,000-year-old History
The history of Aksaray stretches back 11,000 years, beginning with the first Pre-Pottery Neolithic settlement at Aşıklı Höyük around 8200 BC. Over the centuries, Aksaray and its surrounding areas witnessed continuous habitation, including the rule of the Hittites from 1600 BC to 1180 BC. Persian, Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine influences also left their mark on the region. Aksaray became a refuge for Christians seeking safety and seclusion during the spread of Christianity in Anatolia in the 1st century AD. Churches and dwellings were intricately carved into the rocky slopes of the valleys, serving as a testament to the region’s historical significance.
During the Arab-Byzantine wars from the 7th to the 12th centuries, Christians sought sanctuary in the Ihlara and Manastır Valley region. The slopes of the Ilhara Valley are adorned with remnants of rock-cut houses, graves, and churches, establishing the valley as a prominent settlement for Byzantine Christians. Just 25 kilometers away lies the renowned Canli Church, a rare example of masonry architecture in the Cappadocia region. This rich historical backdrop sets the stage for the intriguing mummy collection at Aksaray Museum.
The 13 Mummies of Aksaray Museum
The Aksaray Museum proudly showcases 13 mummies in temperature- and humidity-controlled cases, dating from the 10th to the 12th century. These mummies were discovered during excavations in and around Aksaray, with many originating from the Ilhara Valley, often referred to as the “Valley of Mummies,” and the Canli Church site. These mummies, approximately a thousand years old, provide a unique insight into the ancient burial practices of the region.
While mummification is commonly associated with ancient Egypt, it was also practiced in various parts of the ancient world, including the Aksaray region. The mummification process here differed significantly from the Egyptian techniques. After a person’s death, the internal organs were removed, and the corpse was coated with melted wax and glazed. It was then covered with fabric and shroud before being buried in the ground. Through this process, the corpses were preserved for centuries. The mummies displayed in Aksaray Museum also feature embroidered necklaces, booties, and shrouds, adding to their intriguing allure.
One particular highlight in the mummy section is the preserved mummy of a beloved cat, capturing the attention of visitors, especially children. The cat mummy, covered in wax, stands as a testament to the special bond between humans and animals even in ancient times.
Aksaray Museum’s mummy section may not rival the grandeur of Egyptian museums, but it offers a captivating experience for visitors. With its collection of 13 mummies, including a cat and babies, it provides a rare glimpse into the burial practices of the Aksaray region during the 10th to the 12th centuries. As you explore this unique museum, you’ll be transported back in time, immersing yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of Turkey’s Cappadocia region. Don’t miss the chance to encounter the extraordinary cat mummy and unravel the mysteries of Aksaray’s ancient past.
