Ancient bathhouse from Turkish-Islamic era unearthed in Türkiye’s Amorium Ancient City

Archaeologists have uncovered a well-preserved Turkish-Islamic era bathhouse in Amorium Ancient City, located in the Emirdag district of Afyonkarahisar, Türkiye.

The site, a treasure trove of historical artifacts, has been under excavation since 2013 in a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and Anadolu University.

Under the leadership of Professor Zeliha Demirel Gokalp, the excavations have revealed numerous finds spanning different eras, including Byzantine-era structures, Seljuk and Ottoman coins, and other relics.

In 2020, the Ministry granted the site a 12-month excavation status, integrating it into the “Heritage to the Future” project.

Glimpse into Turkish-Islamic architecture

Among the most significant findings of 2024 is the discovery of a Turkish-Islamic bathhouse within the “inner walls” of the Upper City. Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Prof. Gokalp explained, “This is a largely intact bathhouse with structural elements preserved above the foundation level. Despite the collapse of the roof system, its typology is evident.

We identified features such as the furnace (kulhan), hypocaust (cehennemlik), hot room (sicaklik), and warm room (iliklik), revealing a compact, rectangular-plan structure.”

The bathhouse dates back to the Seljuk and Beylik periods, underscoring the area’s vibrant history during the Turkish-Islamic era.

Unveiling inner walls

Excavations have also focused on the Upper City’s “inner walls,” where researchers have uncovered ceramic fragments from the Seljuk and Beylik periods. The inner walls have been explored to depths of up to three meters in some areas, revealing significant layers of history.

Prof. Gokalp added, “Our goal is to fully reveal the inner walls. Once documented, we aim to propose restoration plans for the bathhouse and the towers along the walls. Plans also include fortifying the walls and welcoming visitors step by step.”

Boosting regional tourism

Yusuf Altin, Afyonkarahisar’s Director of Culture and Tourism, highlighted Amorium’s historical significance.

“With its 4,000-year history, Amorium hosted seven civilizations and held importance for both Christianity and Islam. This year’s discoveries include 13th–15th century artifacts from the Seljuk, Beylik, and Ottoman periods,” he stated.

Altin also revealed ongoing efforts to enhance the visitor experience at the site. “A project for environmental planning and a welcome center has been prepared. Following approval, we aim to implement it in phases starting in 2025, boosting regional tourism.”

Amorium’s timeless legacy

As excavations continue, the findings at Amorium Ancient City enrich our understanding of the region’s historical fabric and its transition through multiple civilizations.

The discoveries promise to attract history enthusiasts and bolster Türkiye’s reputation as a hub of ancient cultural heritage.