Singer's Protest Against AI Sparks Investigation at Ancient Site
Turkish singer Aydin Aydin is currently under investigation by authorities after he publicly broke his traditional instrument, a saz (also known as a bağlama), on the revered Mount Nemrut, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Turkey. The incident, which occurred around November 21, 2025, was captured on video and intended as a protest against the growing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in the music sector.
Aydin's actions have drawn significant attention and criticism, prompting the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism to launch an official inquiry into whether the ancient structures at the site sustained any damage.
The Incident: A Stand Against Artificial Intelligence
In the widely circulated video, Aydin Aydin is seen climbing Mount Nemrut and striking his saz against the historic monuments until it breaks.
He articulated his protest by stating, 'AI now plays, AI sings, AI dances, AI shoots clips. What will happen to us? Will we all disappear? Humanity should not surrender to AI.' Aydin expressed frustration, claiming that 'AI took away my livelihood,' highlighting his concerns about job displacement in the music industry due to AI advancements.
Mount Nemrut: A Site of Profound Historical Significance
Mount Nemrut, located in Adıyaman, Turkey, holds immense archaeological and cultural value. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
The site features a monumental tomb-sanctuary complex built by King Antiochus I Theos of Commagene in the 1st century BC, approximately 2,100 years ago. It is renowned for its colossal stone statues of gods and the king himself, blending Hellenistic and Persian artistic styles.
The archaeological remains include:
- Giant sculptures of deities and King Antiochus I
- A tumulus (burial mound)
- Terraces with relief stelae
Investigation and Potential Legal Consequences
Following the incident, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism initiated an investigation. Expert teams have been dispatched to Mount Nemrut to inspect the statues and structures for any traces of impact or damage caused by Aydin's actions.
Under the Turkish Penal Code, individuals who intentionally cause destruction or damage to protected historical assets can face severe penalties, including:
- Imprisonment for two to five years
- Fines of up to 5,000 days
The outcome of the investigation will depend on the expert report assessing the condition of the Commagene statues and surrounding structures. The incident has generated widespread public debate regarding the protection of cultural heritage and the methods of protest.
8 Comments
Muchacha
Protecting cultural heritage is paramount, yet the concerns about AI's impact on human creativity are also very valid. This incident highlights a complex dilemma.
Bella Ciao
His frustration is completely justified. Our culture is being eroded by soulless algorithms.
Comandante
While Aydin's frustration with AI is understandable, damaging a UNESCO site undermines his message and risks irreplaceable history.
Habibi
His message is lost in the outrage over his destructive actions. Selfish and ignorant.
Africa
Desecrating a UNESCO site is beyond disrespectful. There are better ways to protest.
dedus mopedus
Finally, someone is taking a stand! AI is a real threat to artists.
ytkonos
He's speaking for so many of us losing our livelihoods. What a brave statement.
lettlelenok
He brought attention to a serious issue for musicians, but sacrificing a historical treasure for shock value is a misstep. There must be a more constructive dialogue.