Ancient Secrets Resurface: Fisherman Unearths Mysterious Roman-Era Trident Beneath Turkish Lake
Wielding his trident, Poseidon (or Neptune, in the Roman world) was said to have control over the weather and the ability to stir the seas into a frenzy or calm a storm. He could also use the trident to summon earthquakes or even to create springs or islands.
Maesi64/Wikimedia CommonsThe Fountain of Neptune in Diafáni, Greece, features trident imagery.
During the contest for the patronage of Athens, Poseidon struck the Acropolis with his trident to produce a saltwater spring as a gift to the city. Athena’s gift of the olive tree was deemed more valuable, though, and she became the city’s patron deity instead. Still, Poseidon’s trident remains a key symbol of the ancient god to this day.
The prominent link between the god and the imagery of the trident has led to speculation about the purpose of the artifact found in Lake Iznik. Was the object meant to be an offering to the god? Or was it perhaps used in a ceremony somewhere in the nearby vicinity?
At the moment, experts have no answer. Regardless, the trident is yet another reminder of the rich history of Lake Iznik.
After reading about the trident found in Lake Iznik, see what other wonders exist beneath the water by exploring 13 sunken cities. Or, learn the stories of six of the wildest mythological gods from around the world.
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