Hit by a series of earthquakes, the ancient city of Tralleis lies in ruins since antiquity, while time came to finish off what seismic activity caused, condemning the city into oblivion. Now, the remains of Tralleis- mostly known as home to Hagia Sophia’s architect Isidorus- are to be restored to their former glory, through a vast project which will also make them accessible to prospective visitors.
According to Nuri Aktakka, Culture and Tourism Director for the region of Aydın, where the city of Tralleis belong, a structure which formed the entrance gate of the gymnasium building, and which became the symbol of Aydın has suffered the heaviest damage due to earthquakes and it will be strengthened and illuminated so that it is visible from the entrance of the city.
Restorations have also been continuing to revive a columned road that was discovered in Tralleis. According to Aslı Saraçoğlu, the scientific consultant for the excavations, a professor at the Adnan Menderes University (ADU) Archaeology Department, the restoration work in the ancient city focused on the ancient road, as it had been severely damaged by earthquakes.
“The columned street in the city is one of the quake-hit areas. A number of columns have been revealed and restoration has begun. The ancient road, which has Roman-era stores in front of it, will be restored with all of its components,” she said, adding thatvarious artifacts reflecting the traditions of the era, such as ceramics, mosaics and reliefs have been found.
“When the work is complete, they will be open to visitation,” she said. “The ancient city will become a place worth a visit within a year”, adds Aktakka.