Rector of our University Prof. Dr. Bülent Kent opened the excavation works of the ancient city of Tralleis on July 8, 2024 together with the Aydın Protocol.
In addition to the Rector of our University Prof. Dr. Bülent Kent, Aydın Governor Yakup Canbolat, AK Party Aydın Deputies Mustafa Savaş, Seda Sarıbaş, Ömer Özmen, AK Party MKYK (Central Decision Management Board ) Member Assoc. Prof. Dr. M. Umut Tuncer, AK Party Aydın Provincial Chairman Gökhan Ökten, Aydın Bar Association’s President Sezgin Çetin, Vice Rector of our University Prof. Dr. Cemal İyem, Secretary General Prof. Dr. Bertan Akyol, Advisor to the Rector Assoc. Prof. Dr. Kemal Ramazan Haykıran, Provincial Directors, District Mayors, academic and administrative staff, political party representatives and guests were also present at the ceremony.
Thanking everyone who contributed to the realization of the excavation works of the ancient city of Tralleis, Prof. Dr. Murat Çekilmez, Head of Excavation and Faculty Member of the Department of Archaeology of ADU, said: “The goal of our excavation works today will be to unearth the historical and cultural richness of the region and to bring it to the world of science and our society. The findings we will obtain in this process will make a great contribution not only to the academic world, but also to the protection of our cultural heritage and its transfer to future generations.”
Stating that they are proud to launch the excavations of the Ancient City of Tralleis for the first time with an official opening ceremony, Rector of our University Prof. Dr. Bülent Kent said, “This historical moment is not only a beginning for us, but also a symbol of our hopes and goals for the future. The ancient city of Tralleis has been home to many civilizations for centuries and has survived to the present day with its cultural richness. It is the common responsibility of all of us to bring this unique heritage to light and pass it on to future generations. I believe that this important study will make significant contributions to both the scientific world and the cultural richness of our country.”
Stating that the studies will continue this year with the participation of 30 students, 15 archaeologists, 10 technical experts and many scientists, Rector of our University Prof. Dr. Bülent Kent said, “Tralleis is located in Topyatağı district within the borders of Efeler district of Aydın province. This ancient city, which is spread over a large area of approximately 150 hectares, contains important structures such as acropolis (upper city), necropolis (cemetery), theater, stadium, temple, church, Arsenal and Roman villas. The most remarkable structure of the city is the Bath-Gymnasium complex, popularly known as the “three-eyes”. The support and contribution of all of us is of great importance in this process that we set out to illuminate the mysterious past of Tralleis and reveal the history of this ancient city. I would like to thank you all for participating in this meaningful ceremony and wish our excavations to be successful and productive.”
After Prof. Dr. Bülent Kent, Rector of our University, started the first excavation in the excavation area, the opening ceremony ended with the presentation of refreshments to the guests.