Türkiye’s Only Pyramid-Type Tomb Enters New Conservation Phase in Marmaris

Conservation and environmental improvement works have begun at Türkiye’s only pyramid-type tomb in the Turgut neighborhood of Marmaris, one of the region’s most significant cultural heritage monuments and a rare Hellenistic funerary structure located in Muğla Province.

The project is being carried out by the Marmaris Chamber of Commerce (MTO), which both prepared and funded the initiative. The works are conducted with permission from the Muğla Regional Council for the Protection of Cultural Heritage, under the supervision of the Marmaris Museum Directorate, and with scientific consultancy from Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Gürbüzer of Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University’s Department of Archaeology.

Dating to the Hellenistic period, the monument is regarded as one of the rarest funerary structures in Anatolia. A marble inscription written in the ancient Greek alphabet identifies the burial as belonging to Diagoras and his wife Aristomakha, offering valuable insight into the tomb’s historical background. Because of its distinctive architecture, the monument is widely considered the only surviving pyramid-type tomb in Türkiye. It is also officially registered by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism as a protected immovable cultural heritage asset.

The first stage of the project focuses on clearing the dense vegetation surrounding the tomb. Once this work is completed, a protective perimeter will be established around the monument to enhance site security. Steps and a designated walking route will also be added to make access easier for visitors.

The area will be equipped with informational and warning panels, while security will be strengthened through the installation of camera systems and photo traps. In addition, planned lighting works will make the ancient monument visible during nighttime hours.

Together, these measures aim to ensure the long-term protection of the tomb while making one of Marmaris’ most unusual ancient monuments safer and more accessible to visitors.

Cover Image: Türkiye’s Only Pyramid-Type Tomb. Credit: IHA