Restoration of ancient Tlos city in Türkiye set to begin
A view of the assembly building complex, two baths, and the Temple of Kronos in the ancient city of Tlos, located in Seydikemer district of Mugla, Türkiye reveals the ongoing restoration efforts to revive these structures, October 11, 2024. (AA Photo)
The ancient city of Tlos, located in the Seydikemer district of Mugla, Türkiye, is set to undergo significant restoration work, including its assembly building, two baths and the Temple of Kronos.
This project aims to revive the historic structures, which are currently listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Temporary List.
Major restoration plans announced
Professor Taner Korkut, head of the excavation team, announced plans to commence restoration work in 2025.
“We will start with the assembly building and will also undertake the restoration of two baths and the temple,” he stated.
Korkut emphasized the commitment to using original materials throughout the restoration process, noting that approximately 70% of the ancient theater’s interior restoration has already been completed.
Ongoing excavations at Tlos
The excavation efforts, led by the Faculty of Arts at Akdeniz University, are expected to continue for 12 months. The restoration of the ancient theater is already underway, with plans for the assembly building and other structures to follow closely behind.
Korkut explained that the restoration activities are part of the Culture and Tourism Ministry’s Future Heritage Project, which includes both excavation documentation and restoration initiatives.
“We are working intensely throughout the year. Both excavation and restoration activities are ongoing simultaneously,” he added.
Future prospects for Tlos ancient city
With the restoration of the assembly building, large bath, gymnasium bath and Temple of Kronos scheduled for tender this year, Korkut highlighted that visitors to Tlos in early 2026 will experience a much more captivating ancient city.
The restoration of the ancient theater’s seating areas has already seen the completion of the first section, with work on the second half currently halfway through.
“Our goal is to finish the interior restoration of the theater by mid-2025, and we aim to complete the restoration of the outer walls by the end of that year,” Korkut affirmed.
The theater is designed to accommodate around 8,000 people for events, showcasing the grandeur of ancient architecture.
Tlos Ancient City is on the path to a remarkable revival, promising to enhance its historical and cultural significance in Türkiye.
The ongoing and future restoration projects will ensure that this important archaeological site continues to be a focal point for both locals and tourists alike.
