In 2023, the ancient inscription found near Kimildağı (Kimil Mountain) in Önevler Village of Herger Adıyamana district will shed light on the history of Commagene. The ruling dynasty, the Kingdom of Commagene, was descended from Alexander and the Achaemenids. King Antiochus I (69–34 BC) claimed descent from Darius I through Orontos of Bactria, an ardent supporter of Attaxerxes II, against Cyrus and 10,000, who married Artaxerxes’ daughter.

A small kingdom trying to balance its Persian heritage with the political reality of being part of the Greco-Roman world. It retained its identity from 163 BC until it became part of the Roman province of Syria in 72 AD.

Antiochus I supported Pompey against Mithridates VI of Pontus and proudly called himself Philoromaius (“beloved of Rome”). He not only saw himself as a god, but also aimed to be an ecumenist who reconciled all religions: besides himself, his four gods were Zeus/Ahuramazda, Apollo/Hermes/Mithras/Helios, Artagnes/Herakles/Ares, and Commagene. . Now his grave is at the top of Mount Nemrut.

Villagers who saw a relief statue near Kimildağı on September 26, 2023, reported the situation to Adıyaman Museum Directorate. Relevant groups examined the place and determined that this place was cult (sacred). Archaeological teams discovered a relief depicting a handshake scene and a stele with an inscription in the area. The artifacts unearthed during the excavations were transported to the Ancient City of Perret via military helicopters and ropes from the rugged terrain and steep rocky slopes.

Charles Crowther from Oxford University and Professor Margherita Fachella from the University of Pisa came to the city and examined the work.

“In the inscriptions, King Antiochus I of Commagena gave instructions specifically for the people,” said Professor Margherita Facella.

Stating that the inscription is important, Facella said: “This is an inscription that will shed light on the history of humanity and Commagene. We are honored to participate in its research and contribute to its understanding. The inscriptions include statements made by King Antiochus I of Commagena, especially to the public. Antiochus of Commagen urges people to “obey and respect the law.” On the reverse side of this important inscription, there is a relief depicting Antiochus I and Mithridates I.