2,000-year-old columns in Türkiye’s ancient city of Syedra re-erected

In a significant restoration effort at the ancient city of Syedra, in Alanya, Antalya, 46 columns dating back 2,000 years have been re-erected.

The project is part of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism‘s “Legacy for the Future” initiative, breathing new life into the ancient city.

A walk through history: Restored colonnaded street

Nestled in the district of Seki, Syedra is renowned for its historical treasures, with roots tracing back to the 9th century B.C. The city features a theater, council chambers, bathhouses, pools, cisterns, a complex water system, and a colonnaded street.

This once-thriving urban center, marked by a 10-meter-wide and 250-meter-long avenue, now proudly displays the ancient columns that have been re-erected along the path.

Ertug Ergurer, excavation director and professor at Alaaddin Keykubat University, explained the magnitude of the work: “The colonnaded street is one of the most magnificent remnants of the city. While much of it was uncovered during the first digs between 1994 and 1999, full-scale restoration began in 2023. We’ve now completed the original stone paving and reinstalled all the original columns, restoring the grandeur of the city’s center.”

Tourists flock to witness Syedra’s revival

As the restoration progresses, Syedra is becoming a rising star in Türkiye’s tourism sector. “Visitors are in awe of the restoration work, and their reactions have been incredibly encouraging,” said Ergurer.

“Many who see the splendor of this ancient city share their experiences, resulting in a noticeable increase in visitors. Syedra’s tourism potential is shining through.”

Heracles mosaic and the future of Syedra

Syedra’s rich history spans several civilizations, including Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Anatolian Seljuk periods. One of the city’s standout features is the 164-square-meter mosaic illustrating the 12 labors of Heracles. As Ergurer and his team continue their efforts, the city is expected to draw more attention and play a crucial role in Türkiye’s archaeological tourism scene.

With its historical marvels and impressive restorations, Syedra Ancient City is on the path to becoming one of Türkiye’s premier cultural heritage sites. Its restoration, particularly the re-erection of the 2,000-year-old columns, underscores the site’s grandeur and offers tourists a unique window into the ancient world.