Türkiye’s Euromos Zeus Temple to regain its former glory with restored columns

Archaeologists working in the Milas district of Mugla province are meticulously restoring the 1,860-year-old temple, which has suffered significant structural damage over time. The temple, located in Selimiye, dates back to the second century B.C. and stands as one of the best-preserved ancient sanctuaries in Türkiye.

Associate Professor Abuzer Kizil, head of the Euromos excavation team from Mugla Sitki Kocman University’s archaeology department, emphasized the importance of the ongoing restoration.

“The project has gained momentum under the ‘Heritage for the Future’ initiative. We have cataloged and documented nearly a thousand architectural blocks, paving the way for a precise restoration,” Kizil said.

North columns dismantled to prevent collapse

Kizil explained that years of erosion and structural shifts had made parts of the temple unstable. “In previous years, partial restoration work was carried out. However, this year, we have taken a crucial step by dismantling all the northern columns, which were leaning dangerously. Had a strong earthquake struck, they could have collapsed, causing irreversible damage,” he stated.

The restoration team is carefully repairing and reinforcing the damaged pieces before reassembling them in their original locations. “We are rebuilding the temple from its foundation to its roof. Our priority is to re-erect the northern façade first, ensuring its stability,” Kizil added.

Restoration to continue until 2028 in Euromos

Under the “Heritage for the Future” project, the team plans to restore the remaining facades as well. “We aim to connect three sides of the temple structurally to enhance its earthquake resistance. We are adhering to ancient construction techniques to maintain historical authenticity,” Kizil noted.

Beyond the temple, excavation and restoration work will extend to other key structures in Euromos, including its theater, agora, and bath complex. “The restoration will continue until 2028. In addition to structural repairs, we will conduct excavations around the temple. While it is a Roman-era sanctuary, there are layers from the Hellenistic and Archaic periods as well, which could yield new archaeological insights,” Kizil explained.

Euromos excavations are ongoing throughout the year, involving various archaeological disciplines such as geophysical surveys, mapping, and structural analysis.

Experts believe that once restored, the Zeus Lepsynos Temple will reclaim its former grandeur, offering visitors a glimpse into the splendor of Türkiye’s ancient heritage.