Ancient columns unearthed in Laodikeia

In one of the largest ancient Greek cities in the western Turkish province of Denizli, Laodikeia, the columns of a portico structure, which collapsed during an earthquake in 494, have been unearthed after more than 15 centuries.

Columns unearthed in Laodikeia 
[Credit: DHA]

Excavations have been carried out in Laodikeia, which is located five kilometers away from the city center and was home to one of the seven churches mentioned in the Bible, by Pamukkale University throughout the year.

The head of the excavations, Prof. Celal Şimşek, said they had removed six columns from six meters deep in an area called the Sacred Agora.

“The traces of the earthquake that destroyed Laodikeia still exist. The columns that collapsed during this big earthquake have come to light after 1520 years. Excavations continue. We will find other remnants,” he said.

Source: Hurriyet Daily News [November 05, 2015]