8,500 Years of Sacred Heritage: Unearthing the Mysterious Sanctuaries of Herakleia
Ancient deities, mythological tales, and sacred architecture come to light in the Latmos Mountains as archaeological excavations unveil Herakleia’s hidden past. As part of the Wednesday Talks series organized by the Association for Nature Lovers and Ecosystem Protection (EKODOSD), Prof. Dr. Zeliha Gider Büyüközer, head of the Latmos–Herakleia Excavations and faculty member at Selçuk University’s
3,000-Year-Old Phrygian Rock Tomb Converted Into a Café
In the İhsaniye district of Afyonkarahisar, Türkiye, a 3,000-year-old rock tomb belonging to the ancient Phrygian civilization has been controversially converted into a café. The site, part of the Phrygian Valley and listed as a UNESCO tentative cultural heritage, has sparked significant backlash from experts and the public alike. The Significance of the Phrygian Valley
The Stratonikeia Library, Raised by the Hands of a Master from Ephesus, Emerges from the Earth
In the Yatağan district of Muğla, Turkey, a long-silent sanctuary of knowledge nestled among timeworn marble stones is being brought back to life through the meticulous work of archaeologists. Located in the ancient city of Stratonikeia — often referred to as the “City of Gladiators” — a Roman-era library is reemerging, captivating history enthusiasts not
Tralleis Ancient City to Open to Visitors: A 23-Year Dream Comes True
One of Turkey’s hidden archaeological gems, Tralleis Ancient City in Aydın, is set to welcome visitors starting August 2025. This milestone marks the fulfillment of a 23-year dream for excavation director Prof. Dr. Murat Çekilmez, who has dedicated his entire academic career to this historic site. From Student Volunteer to Excavation Director Prof. Çekilmez first
Ephesus Ancient City Now Open at Night: A Magical Journey Through Time Under the Stars
Ephesus, one of Turkey’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is now offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore its ancient streets under the night sky. As part of a new initiative by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the historical site is illuminated with special lighting, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere after sunset. Walk
2,400-Year-Old Shops to Be Unearthed in Hyllarima, One of Anatolia’s Best-Preserved Ancient Cities
Ongoing archaeological excavations in Hyllarima Ancient City, located in the Kavaklıdere district of Muğla, southwestern Türkiye, continue to shed light on the region’s rich past. Known as one of the rare ancient settlements in Anatolia that has remained remarkably well-preserved, Hyllarima is now revealing new secrets—2,400-year-old shop structures located in the heart of the ancient
Excavations Begin at Kedrai Ancient City: Sedir Island’s Hidden History Resurfaces
The 2025 archaeological excavation season at Kedrai Ancient City, located on Sedir Island in Muğla’s Marmaris district, will officially begin on June 23. This year’s work will focus on deepening research around the grand basilica and ancient theater. Sedir Island’s historical treasure Kedrai prepares for a new excavation season Situated off the coast of Muğla’s
Surprising Discovery in the Ancient City of Magnesia: First Structures from the Christian Era Unearthed
Archaeological excavations in the ancient city of Magnesia, located in the Germencik district of Aydın, have uncovered a brand new historical layer that sheds light on the city’s past. For the first time, evidence spanning from the Late Roman period to the Christian era and the pre-Beyliks period has been identified. With a 2,400-year history,
2025 Excavation Season Begins at Blaundos Ancient City
The 2025 excavation season has officially commenced at the Blaundos Ancient City, located in the Ulubey district of Uşak, western Türkiye. This year’s archaeological efforts will focus on three major areas of the site: the northern temple, the ancient stadium, and the colonnaded street. Experts believe these areas may reveal new insights into the city’s
Tralleis Ancient City to Open for Visitors in August
The ancient city of Tralleis, located in the Efeler district of Aydın, Türkiye, is expected to open to visitors in August 2025 following long-term archaeological and restoration work. The project is part of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism’s “Heritage for the Future” initiative, which focuses on reviving historically significant sites across the country. Excavation