In 2020, archaeologists in Turkey have discovered a terracotta mask of the Greek God Dionysus. This wonderful artifact dates back 2,400 years and has been found during excavations in western Turkey.
Archaeologist Kaan Iren, head of excavations in the ancient city of Daskyleion in the western Balıkesir province, told Anadolu Agency that the mask of Dionysus was found in the city's acropolis,and "it is one of this year's most interesting findings. ". He also believes that the mask was offered as a gift to God Dionysus during winemaking rituals.
Apart from being the God of wine and ecstasy, Dionysus is also the God of theatre. Ancient Greek theatre involved the use of masks and it is believed that wearing a mask of Dionysus as a means of paying homage to Him, could help the worshipper attain freedom from all inhibitions, thus reaching ecstasy. Dionysus Himself is said, upon different circumstances, to have 'masked' both His identity and His power.
The city of Daskyleion, where the mask was found, is located on the shore of Lake Manyas in the Bandırma district of Balıkesir, in modern-day Turkey.
Edited from dailysabah.com and hyperallergic.com
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