Zeus Temple's entrance gate found in Turkey's Aegean province

By Ferdi Uzun

AYDIN, Turkey (AA) – The entrance gate of Magnesia's Zeus Temple has been unearthed during an excavation in the ancient city of Magnesia, located in the Ortaklar district of Germencik in the Aegean province of Aydin.

The Artemis sanctuary, a stadium, a theater area, 80 statues, and various items have been unearthed in the ancient city so far during the excavations led by Ankara University Archeology Department’s Associate Professor Gorkem Kokdemir.

Speaking to Anadolu Agency, Kokdemir said Magnesia was a prominent city in ancient times with its religious festivals held in temples and sanctuaries.

“We think that the temple we found in this area is as much important in the history of architecture as the 4th largest Temple of Artemis in Anatolia. It is a temple dedicated to Zeus," he said.

He said the ancient area was previously excavated by Germans who took some pieces of Zeus Temple to Germany, which are still on display at the Berlin Pergamon Museum.

“Next year, we will reveal the origin of the structure, which is exhibited in the museum in Berlin. This is a tremendous thing. It is very important both for archaeological literature and tourism. So, we are very excited,” he said.

“When we unearth this temple completely, the eyes of the world's archeology community will be here,” he added.