2025 Excavation Season Begins at Amos Ancient City: A Journey into History Continues

The Amos Ancient City, located in the Marmaris district of Muğla, has officially begun its 2025 excavation season. Supported under the “Heritage for the Future” project by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the archaeological digs enter their fifth year with the goal of uncovering more of the site’s historical richness.

The excavations are led by Assoc. Prof. Mehmet Gürbüzer, who stated that this season aims to further investigate the historical layers of Amos and reveal new findings about the city’s social, economic, and religious life during Antiquity.

Dating back to the Hellenistic Period, Amos is known for its well-preserved theater, fortification walls, and temple remains. Previous excavations have uncovered significant structures and inscriptions that trace the city’s origins as far back as the 3rd century BCE. Amos was part of the ancient Caria region and affiliated with Rhodian Peraia, highlighting its strategic importance in both trade and defense due to its commanding coastal position.

The Marmaris Chamber of Commerce, one of the main sponsors of the project, emphasized that Amos is not only an archaeological treasure but also a valuable touristic asset. In a statement, the Chamber said, “We highly appreciate the success achieved in the fifth year of the excavations. We thank the entire excavation team for their contribution to the promotion and preservation of Amos.”

With promising prospects for new discoveries this season, the Amos excavations are expected to shed more light on the city’s hidden past and continue bridging the gap between history and the future.

Cover Photo: IHA