Culture and Tourism Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy has announced plans to accelerate excavation and restoration efforts in the ancient city of Aspendos, located in the southern province of Antalya. Currently, only 2 percent of the city has been excavated, prompting a commitment to complete these works within four years, targeting 30 percent of the site.
Despite being a popular tourist destination with 270,000 visitors in 2023, Aspendos holds immense archaeological potential yet to be fully explored. With an initial allocation of 1 billion Turkish Liras, the government aims to unlock more of its historical treasures.
Minister Ersoy emphasized the significance of Aspendos, particularly its aqueducts and ancient theater, both recognized on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List since 2015. These structures showcase remarkable Roman architectural and engineering achievements, captivating visitors with their enduring grandeur.
The ancient city boasts a plethora of attractions, including two-story shops, baths, gates, a monumental fountain, a basilica, and a temple, in addition to its aqueducts and theater. As part of the “Heritage for the Future Project,” excavation and restoration efforts will focus initially on the western section’s two-story shops and stoa complex, as well as the monumental fountain building.
Furthermore, plans include reviving the original streets, establishing a visitor reception center, and enhancing the overall landscaping of the site. Over the next four years, additional excavation areas will be opened up, providing visitors with an enriched understanding of Aspendos’s historical significance and architectural splendor.
