["International Journal of Osteoarchaeology, EarlyView. ", "\nABSTRACT\nPrimates are rare faunal components in zooarchaeological studies worldwide. In this study, we present the presence of a primate in a Roman‐period tomb in Attaleia (modern‐day Antalya). An almost complete cranium with maxillary teeth was examined, and dental measurements were taken. A large comparative material was used for taxonomic determination. Our detailed morphological and metric analyses suggest that the primate cranium belongs to the genus Macaca. Principal component analysis indicates values similar to those of Macaca sylvanus and Macaca mulatta, but a closer placement with M. sylvanus is observed. In addition to its taxonomic identification, the sex and age of the primate were also assessed. M. sylvanus is generally known as a species native to North Africa, and archaeological records indicate that it was a notable object of trade during the Roman period. Archaeological records from Attaleia support trade connections between North Africa and the city. Unlike most animals encountered in the archaeological record, this species served as a symbol of wealth in ancient cultures. They performed various roles, including as performers, mascots, or pets of high‐ranking members of society. This study presents the first detailed osteological analysis of such a specimen from the region and explores its symbolic significance within the context of ancient cultural practices. Furthermore, we aim to use a not commonly employed perspective by employing detailed morphological and metric analyses of faunal remains in the archaeological record. This approach will provide a broader osteological dataset for future research in this field.\n"]