Ancient walls, towers of Becin Fortress restored to former glory

In Mugla’s Milas district, the walls and towers of Becin Fortress, part of the ancient city listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List, are being restored to their former glory through meticulous excavation and restoration efforts.

One of the region’s most significant archaeological sites, Becin Ancient City, is revealing its historical secrets year-round. The surviving structures are being restored and opened to tourism.

Professor Kadir Pektas, head of the Becin Ancient City Excavation, explained that Becin city and fortress were chosen as the capital by the Mentese Principality. He emphasized that in addition to excavations, extensive restoration work is underway.

“We regularly conduct excavation work in this ancient city, which was included in UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List in 2012. While many artifacts are being unearthed, the surviving historical structures are being restored and integrated into tourism,” he said.

‘Fortress walls, towers restored to original appearance’

Pektas noted that while the history of the ancient city dates back to 2000 B.C., it gained significant importance during the Mentese Principality period. He stated that the restoration project, which was approved and started last year, continued this year.

“The restoration of the towers at the entrance of the inner fortress and the elevation of some sections of the fortress walls have been completed. The excavation work in the cistern at the entrance of the inner fortress will be finished soon,” he added.

Pektas highlighted that the Becin inner fortress overlooks the Milas Plain, providing a dominant view. He explained that the walls, which were in danger of collapse, have been restored.

“The towers at the entrance of the inner fortress posed a significant risk. Their restoration has been completed first. We will conduct similar restorations on other walls in stages. Once finished, the inner fortress will showcase the grandeur of its past. Visitors will have the opportunity to see a site that has witnessed uninterrupted habitation from the Chalcolithic period to the 1950s,” he said.

In Becin Fortress, sections of the fortress walls and two towers have been restored, with eight more towers awaiting restoration. Pektas also emphasized that the 2024 excavation and restoration works are ongoing.

“We are conducting cleaning works in the cemetery area, and the restoration project for the tomb across from the inner fortress is under review by the conservation board,” he explained.

Historical sources indicate that Becin Fortress, located 5 kilometers from the Milas town center on the Milas-Oren road, was constructed during the Byzantine period using stones from surrounding ancient structures. During the Menteşe Principality period, the fortress was repaired and utilized.

The ongoing excavation and restoration efforts in Becin Ancient City aim to preserve this significant historical heritage for future generations while enhancing its tourism potential.