Anniversary of the Battle of Thermopylae (480 BC)

"Today is the anniversary of the Battle of Thermopylae (480 BC), one of the most famous battles in history. King Leonidas of Sparta said the phrase Molon Labe (means “Come and take them” in ancient Greek) to Xerxes I of Persia 2492 years ago when the Persians asked the Spartans to lay down their arms and surrender. Instead, the Greeks held Thermopylae for three days and, although they were ultimately annihilated, they inflicted serious damage upon the Persian army, and most importantly delayed its progress to Athens, providing sufficient time for the city’s evacuation to the island of Salamis. Though a clear defeat, Thermopylae served as a moral victory and inspired the troops at the Battle of Salamis and the Battle of Plataea."

Read the rest of the article at Greek Reporter

İzmir’s treasures to be shown in five new open-air museums

"New open-air museums will be established in İzmir (formerly Greek Smyrna) as long-term excavations of the many ancient sites in the province are completed over the next few years. The Turkish Culture Ministry is also planning to establish a ‘mega museum’ in the city. The western province of İzmir, a treasure trove of archaeological and historical sites, will open five more open-air museums to house archaeological artifacts recovered from excavations that are set finished over the next few years. "

Read the rest of the article at The Archaeology News Network

Alderney Roman fort future discussed

"The Channel Islands' oldest standing building could become a visitor centre. The building in Alderney, known as the nunnery, is the best preserved Roman small fort in Britain, according to the director of Guernsey Museums. Dr Jason Monaghan has been involved in the archaeological digs held at the site in Longis Bay over five summers. He said tourism was one part of discussions into the future of the very important historical site."

Read the rest of the article at BBC News

New dig set to start at Caistor St Edmund Roman town near Norwich

"Archaeologists are revisiting the site of Venta Icenorum, in Caistor St Edmund, in hope of uncovering more secrets from the Roman town on the outskirts of Norwich. The excavations will begin on August 11, once again being led by Dr Will Bowden from the University of Nottingham, and lasting until September 1. Last year saw tremendous success for Dr Bowden and his team, as they focused on the forum in the site, which would have been the centre of all activity. They discovered the remnants of a group of buildings that pre-dated the forum, which would have been made of timber and clay, but there was evidence that these had been burnt down in a “catastrophic fire” before the forum had even been built."

Read the rest of the article at Eastern Daily Press