Historical Finding in the Ancient City of Prusias Ad Hypium in Düzce
A portrait bust thought to belong to M. Iulius Proklos, who had the stage building of the ancient theater built, was discovered during excavations in the Prusias Ad Hypium Ancient City in the historical Konuralp region of Düzce. According to the statement made by the Düzce Municipality, archaeological work in this region, which dates back to the 3rd century BC, has been ongoing since 2019, with the permission of the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museums, under the leadership of the Konuralp Museum Directorate and with the support of the municipality.
During the excavations, a portrait bust, approximately 1800 years old, was unearthed in front of the western entrances of the theater. This bust is 56 centimeters high and 50 centimeters wide and attracts attention with its curly and ringlet hairstyle.
The bust reflects the elaborate style of the Antonine period, with each strand of hair curling inward, unlike the others. In addition, the bust has a bearded and moustached face, and a folded piece of cloth is depicted on the shoulder. Experts believe that this bust may belong to M. Iulius Proklos, who was an imperial priest during the reign of Emperor Hadrian and also had the stage building of the theater built.
