Myra’s Roman Theatre to Be Rebuilt Using Original Stones in Antalya

The ancient city of Myra, one of the six leading cities of the Lycian League, is preparing to restore its iconic 11,000-seat Roman theatre to its original grandeur. Located in the Demre district of Antalya, Türkiye, the site is undergoing an ambitious conservation and restoration project under the Heritage for the Future initiative by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

A Cultural Landmark Rivaling Aspendos

Archaeological excavations, led by Prof. Dr. Nevzat Çevik of Akdeniz University since 2009, have mapped thousands of original stone blocks and architectural elements of the theatre. The first stage of the restoration will see the scenic façade rebuilt up to 14–15 meters (46–49 ft) in height, using its authentic stones. Missing capitals, columns, and architectural features will be recreated at an on-site “stone hospital” and installed in their original positions.

Once completed, the theatre will not only be a fully conserved monument but also the largest cultural event venue in the region, echoing the role of the world-famous Aspendos Theatre.

Prof. Çevik emphasized:

“After the first floor is reconstructed, the structure will be stabilized and partially opened for use, becoming the region’s most prominent cultural stage.”

The “Pompeii of Anatolia” Beneath Demre

Geophysical surveys have revealed that the modern town of Demre sits atop a 1.5–2 km-wide ancient metropolis, buried beneath 4 to 10 meters of alluvial deposits. “We only see the theatre today, but imagine the scale of a city that built a theatre this large,” said Prof. Çevik.

From the Chalcolithic Period to the Lycian Metropolis

Myra, celebrated for its 103 Classical-period rock-cut tombs, has origins dating back to the Chalcolithic Age. The city served as a major Lycian metropolis during the Hellenistic and Roman periods, with its harbor Andriake acting as a vital Mediterranean trade hub for centuries.

“These projects not only preserve and revive the ruins but also uncover the city’s deep cultural heritage, offering major contributions to archaeology, tourism, and local life,” Prof. Çevik added.