ISTANBUL, Oct. 4 (Xinhua) -- An ancient trident harpoon, estimated to be 1,700-1,800 years old, has been discovered during an ongoing archaeological excavation in northwestern Türkiye, local media reported Wednesday.
This iron harpoon, designed for fishing in ancient times, was found at an archaeological site in the village of Assos in Canakkale province, according to the state-run Anadolu agency.
Nurettin Arslan, an academic leading the excavation, said that because ancient iron tools and equipment are prone to rapid decay, the finding of the trident harpoon is particularly noteworthy.
Arslan said the harpoon was most likely produced in Assos, as previous discoveries at the site have revealed that iron processing was widespread in ancient times.
Currently, a restorer is working on the artifact to remove soil and oxidized elements. After restoration, protective measures will be applied to prevent further corrosion, the academic added.
