04/04/2024
At the heart of the ancient site of Gordion lies the Midas Mound, also known as Tumulus MM, a monumental burial mound. This imposing structure, located in modern-day Turkey, is steeped in mystery and legend.
The Midas Mound is a testament to the ancient Phrygian civilization that once flourished in Anatolia during the Iron Age, particularly during the 8th and 7th centuries BC. Rising approximately 50 meters in height and spanning around 53 meters in diameter, the mound commands attention, its presence dominating the landscape of Gordion.
Excavations at the Midas Mound have unveiled a complex internal structure, revealing multiple chambers and rich burial goods. These chambers, carefully constructed within the heart of the mound, speak to the reverence and significance accorded to the individuals interred within.
Yet, perhaps the most interesting aspect of the Midas Mound lies in its association with the legendary figure of King Midas, a ruler of Phrygia immortalized in Greek mythology. King Midas, known for his fabled ability to turn everything he touched into gold, is said to have ruled over the land surrounding Gordion during antiquity.
While the precise identity of the occupants of the Midas Mound remains a subject of speculation and debate among archaeologists, its connection to the legendary king adds an extra layer of intrigue. Could the Midas Mound be the final resting place of the fabled monarch, or does it hold the remains of other illustrious figures from Phrygia’s storied past?