Art & Architecture + Turkey

Near East: Ancient Magnesia in western Turkey submerged again
The ancient Greek city of Magnesia, where excavations have been ongoing for 30 years, remains underwater after rainfall over the weekend submerged parts of the excavated site.

Ancient Magnesia in western Turkey submerged once again
Located in the western province of Aydın’s Germencik district, the 3rd century B.C. ancient city has turned into a lake with due to heavy rainfall and groundwater in the surrounding area.

According to site officials, the same situation also has happened in the past, notably last year.

“The Aydın Governor’s Office and Aydın Provincial Cultural Directorate have told the Aydın General Directorate of Cultural and Natural Heritage that they would find a solution to prevent it but nothing has changed,” officials said.

Magnesia, known as the “city of incidents” since it has witnessed many important events throughout history, is best known for its temple dedicated to Artemis, the fourth biggest temple in Anatolia, and Zeus temples from the 3rd century B.C.

Source: Hurriyet Daily News [February 24, 2016]