2025 Excavation Season Begins at the Ancient City of Tralleis: Aydın’s Historical Treasure Set to Open for Visitors

In the central district of Efeler in Aydın, one of Türkiye’s significant archaeological sites dating back to antiquity, the 2025 excavation season has officially begun at the ancient city of Tralleis. First initiated in 1996, the excavations are now entering their 29th year. The work continues uninterrupted under the “Heritage for the Future” project by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Archaeological efforts are carried out under the scientific supervision of Prof. Dr. Murat Çekilmez from the Department of Archaeology at Adnan Menderes University’s Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences.

Target: Opening in July

According to the excavation team, Tralleis is planned to be partially opened to visitors in July 2025. Preparations include ongoing infrastructure, landscaping, and environmental planning. The tender process for building visitor reception and orientation areas has also been completed.

A Cultural Center with Roman Roots

According to historical sources, Tralleis was founded in the 13th century BCE by Thracians and Argives. It rose to prominence as a cultural center during the Roman and Byzantine periods, particularly noted for its sculpture workshops. The city was home to renowned sculptors such as Apollonios and Tauriskos, and even the famed architect Anthemios, one of the masterminds behind Hagia Sophia, was born here.

Known in antiquity as the “mighty city,” Tralleis offers visitors an impressive architectural ensemble including remains of Roman-era baths, an agora, a theatre, and a gymnasium.

2025 Season Goals: New Discoveries

This season’s main focus will be on uncovering additional architectural elements of the bath-gymnasium complex. Previous excavations unearthed numerous structures and artifacts dating back to the 3rd and 2nd centuries BCE, including the impressive arched structure locally referred to as “Üç Gözler” (Three Eyes), Roman-era ruins, terracotta figurines, oil lamps, unguentaria, and burial offerings.

The Aydın Directorate of Culture and Tourism noted that the decision by the Presidency of Türkiye to expand excavations to a year-round format is crucial for sustaining both the scientific and touristic value of the site.

A New Era for Aydın’s Tourism

Tralleis is not only a cornerstone of Aydın’s heritage but also a key asset for cultural tourism across the Aegean region. As part of the Ministry’s “Heritage for the Future” initiative, plans are underway to include the site in Türkiye’s night museum program, allowing visitors to experience the ancient city under both sunlight and moonlight.