Archaeologists excavating the ancient city of Hadrianopolis in Turkey have unearthed a bronze drinking filter dating back to the 5th century AD. The discovery was made during ongoing excavations and restoration work at the site, which was inhabited during the Late Chalcolithic, Roman, and Early Byzantine periods.
The filter, measuring 9.2 centimeters in length and featuring a carrying ring, was found among other artifacts at the site. According to Dr. Ersin Çelikbaş, head of the excavation team from Karabük University, the filter was used to purify drinking water in antiquity. The filter's design includes holes that acted as a sieve, allowing for a more comfortable and hygienic drinking experience.
The discovery of the bronze filter provides valuable insights into the daily lives of people living in Hadrianopolis during the 5th century AD. The presence of the filter suggests that the inhabitants were concerned with the quality of their drinking water and were using innovative methods to ensure its purity. This finding also sheds light on the advanced technological capabilities of the people living in the region during this period.
Hadrianopolis, known as the "Zeugma of the Black Sea", is renowned for its well-preserved mosaics depicting various animals. The city was a significant center of trade and agriculture, with evidence of extensive farming activities, including the cultivation of pomegranates, apples, pears, grapes, barley, and wheat. The presence of these crops, along with the bronze filter, indicates that the inhabitants of Hadrianopolis enjoyed a diverse and relatively sophisticated lifestyle.