A jawbone from a large feline species, possibly a lion, tiger, or panther, has been discovered at the Ancient City of Apameia in Turkey. The city, established in the 3rd century BC by Antiochus I Soter, is considered the second most important city after the ancient city of Ephesus. Its theater, dating back to the Hellenistic period, is one of the significant structures in the city, with the ability to accommodate up to 7,000 people.
The discovered jawbone may have been used in the shows held at the theater, and DNA analysis will be conducted to determine its age and species. The animal is not native to the region where it was found, and its proximity to the theater suggests a connection to ancient period performances. Intact pottery has also been unearthed during the excavation, providing valuable data related to the Hellenistic period.