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Image Credit: OMU<\/p>\n
A team of archaeologists from Ondokuz May\u0131s University (OMU) is set to embark on an extensive excavation project to reveal the full history of the ancient city of Sebastopolis. Also known as Saleia, Sebastopolis was a town of ancient Caria and played a significant role during the Hellenistic<\/strong>, Roman, and Byzantine times, even minting its own coins in antiquity. This historically significant site, located in the Sulusaray district of Tokat, Turkey, served as an influential trading hub during these periods. As detailed in the Antonine Itinerary, Sebastopolis was strategically placed on a key route linking Tavium to Sebastia (modern-day Sivas) and connected by road to Caesarea (now Kayseri).<\/p>\n Although the original founding date of Sebastopolis is unclear, an epitaph suggests the city was granted polis status during the reign of Emperor Trajan (AD 98 to 117).<\/p>\n Initial archaeological explorations began in 1987 by the Tokat Museum Directorate. Excavations resumed in 2010 with a French team and continued from 2013 to 2018 under the guidance of \u015eeng\u00fcl Dilek Ful.<\/p>\n Current excavation efforts are concentrated on two prominent structures: a Roman Bath and a Byzantine Church. Previously discovered inscriptions hint at the existence of additional significant structures, such as a gymnasium, stadium, temples dedicated to Heracles, Zeus, Hadrian, and Trajan, along with a theatre, agora, asclepion, and necropolis, which are yet to be unveiled.<\/p>\n Despite these promising prospects, the task is complicated by modern-day Sulusaray\u2019s overlap with the ancient city. \u201cUncovering Sebastopolis will be a prolonged endeavor,\u201d stated Dr. Ak\u0131n Tem\u00fcr from OMU. \u201cIt requires expropriating and demolishing existing structures to facilitate the excavation process. Thus, cooperation from local administrators and business leaders is essential.\u201d<\/p>\n Further challenges include securing adequate labor and financial support. Due to its location on the floodplain of the \u00c7ekerek River, archaeological remnants are buried beneath deep layers of silt and soil, reaching depths of up to 10 meters.<\/p>\n Dr. Tem\u00fcr emphasized that the project has received backing from the Special Administration and the Ministry of Culture. However, more substantial funding is crucial for sustained excavation and restoration efforts. \u201cWith sufficient resources, we could fully unearth Sebastopolis, enriching the scientific community and boosting the region\u2019s tourism potential,\u201d Tem\u00fcr remarked.<\/p>\n Header Image Credit: OMU<\/p>\n