10 Must-See Excavation Sites in Turkey for History Lovers
Turkey boasts a plethora of archaeological sites, including those dating back to Neolithic times such as Gobeklitepe, mythical cities like Hattusa, whose mysteries are still being uncovered, and famous ancient cities such as Ephesus, Pergamon and Troy. Turkey invites you to come and unravel the mysteries of its diverse past. Whether you are interested in exploring ruins by boat, such as the sunken city of Kekova in the Mediterranean or Olympos further along the coast, there are numerous opportunities to do so. Alternatively, if you have a keen interest in learning as much as possible about ancient civilisations in Turkey, including the history and legends of Çatalhöyük, you should definitely check out the list we prepared for you👇
1. Troy
Troy has long been a source of fascination for historians and archaeologists, as evidenced by the extensive research that has been conducted on the site since the time of Homer's Illiad (3000 BC). This site dates back to 3000 BC and features evidence of ancient fortifications, including walls, gates and watchtowers. Situated in proximity to Canakkale, the site is easily accessible from nearby towns.
2. Hattusa
Hattusa was the ancient capital city of the Hittites. Despite once being regarded as nothing more than a myth, the site was discovered in the late 19th century. The site is still being excavated as archaeologists strive to understand the lives of its inhabitants. Situated in central Anatolia, approximately 200 km east of Ankara, the capital of Türkiye, Hattusa continues to offer significant insights into the history and culture of this ancient region.
3. Olympos
During the period of Lycian rule, Olympos' strategic location and access to a pivotal coastal port enabled efficient connection to Mediterranean towns. The city was abandoned in the 15th century, but traces of the settlement remain. Today, the area is enveloped in lush greenery, with trees growing amidst the Lycian ruins of the once-prosperous town. Olympos is an outdoor enthusiast's dream, offering access to the sea, diving, rock climbing and more, and is located close to Dalaman on the Mediterranean coast.
4. Ephesus
Due to its features and location, Ephesus was the most significant city in the Roman Empire outside of Rome. The capital of Asia Minor was renowned for its wealth, prosperity and high levels of education. The city's notable features, such as the reconstructed Library of Celsus, the expansive amphitheatre, the Temple of Artemis, an Odeon, and significant landmarks in Christian history, make it a destination of interest for the majority of visitors. Situated in proximity to modern-day Izmir, the ancient city of Ephesus offers an easily accessible day trip from the Aegean coast.
5. Gobeklitepe
The site of Göbeklitepe is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in history, with profound implications for our understanding of the past and the evolution of humankind. Discovered in the 1960s, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2018. Excavation began in 1995, with findings illustrating that Göbeklitepe dates back to the 10th–8th millennium BCE, or 12,000 years ago. It is believed to be the oldest temple in the world and is regarded as one of the most significant religious structures in existence. The site features a quarry, pillars with distinct carvings, engravings, and sculptures, believed to make up a large temple complex of possibly 20 separate temples. The site is located in proximity to the ancient city of Sanliurfa, and some of the larger pillars uncovered during the excavations are currently housed in the Sanliurfa Archaeology Museum.
6. Patara
The ancient city of Patara is located on the Mediterranean coast of Türkiye, in close proximity to the airports in Dalaman and Fethiye. The city traces its origins to the ancient Greeks, having been founded by Patarus, son of Apollo. The city's strategic location, complete with a naturally formed harbour, played a pivotal role in its flourishing during ancient times. During Roman rule, the city expanded into a significant maritime and commercial hub. Today, visitors can explore a vast site featuring the bouleuterion (parliament building), the ancient theatre, bath complexes, ancient sarcophagi and the reconstructed grand promenade. Near the shore, visitors will find one of the world's oldest known lighthouses. Constructed under the auspices of the Roman Emperor Nero in AD 65, the lighthouse stands as a testament to Patara's pre-eminence in the region during the Roman era.
Source: Stone Wrap
7. Çatalhöyük
Catalhoyuk is among the earliest known structures in Turkey, featuring stunning rock paintings and carvings dating back to the Neolithic period. This site was only discovered in the 1950s and excavations are still ongoing to enable us to understand more about the structure and its role. Catalhoyuk is located near the city of Konya, in Turkey.
8. Pergamon
Pergamon was the capital of its own Kingdom and a mighty city during the Hellenistic period. Established in the 3rd Century BC, the remnants of this ancient city include a theatre carved into the hillside, along with indications of temples, bath complexes and other features. The site is located close to the modern town of Bergama.
9. Kekova
In the vicinity of Kaş on the Mediterranean coast, Kekova is a distinctive excavation site. The ruins are located underwater. Instead of exploring the ruins of the city on foot, visitors are encouraged to take a boat tour. The underwater ruins of Dolchiste, an ancient Lycian settlement, can be seen as you sail over them, making for a truly awe-inspiring experience. The city was partially lost to an earthquake in the 2nd Century. The site can be visited on a day trip from nearby Kas, making it both easy and affordable to incorporate into a wider itinerary.
10. Nemrut
Mount Nemrut is an archaeological site of significant interest in Turkey. Constructed during the Hellenistic period by King Antiochus I of Commagene, it is a Hierothesion, a temple-tomb and house of the Gods. Antiochos built it to honour himself in life and death. This monumental structure features statues of a lion and an eagle, believed to be guardians of the site, in addition to statues of deities and inscriptions that depict Antiochos' ancestral lineage and legends that stem from both Greek and Persian roots. Located in eastern Anatolia, Mt Nemrut is an unmissable archaeological site.
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