City of the Clouds- Selgessos Discover Selgessos, an ancient city in southwestern Turkey, rich in history and cultural significance – By Dr Harold Gunatillake
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In 1706, Paul Lucas, on a mission for Louis XIV, travelled to southwest Turkey and discovered the mountain ruins of Sagalassos.
Since 1990, Sagalassos has become a large-scale, interdisciplinary excavation of the Catholic University of Leuven, directed by Marc Waelkens. We are now exposing the monumental city centre and have completed or nearly completed four major restoration projects there.
Before I explored the Roman Empire city of Zeugma and the remarkable archaeological artefacts that were uncovered, I now focus on another
significant site in southwestern Turkey: Sagalassos, also known as Selgessos, located in the Burdur Province. This site stands out as one of the best- preserved ancient cities in Asia Minor and has rightfully earned its place on Turkey’s tentative UNESCO World Heritage List. Today, Sagalassos is open to visitors, offering a unique opportunity to walk through history and witness the impressive preservation of its ancient structures.
Sagalassos, a city that shone brightly during the Hellenistic, Roman, and early Byzantine periods, is known as the ‘first city of Pisidia.’ Its significant role in shaping the region’s history is a testament to its prominence.
Sagalassos is located on the steep slopes of the Western Taurus Mountains at 1450 to 1700 meters. The site provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and landscape.
The extensive excavations began in 1990, led by Marc Waelkens of the Catholic University of Leuven. These ambitious efforts have revealed a treasure trove of ancient buildings, grand monuments, and intriguing artefacts, all providing profound insights into the vibrant and storied history of the city. Each discovery highlights the richness of the past, inviting exploration and appreciation of the cultural heritage that once thrived in this remarkable location.
Several significant structures grace the city, each a testament to its historical richness. The Roman Bath Complex, the Theatre, the Library, and the Urban Mansion, which has 80 rooms, all represent the city’s past. Notably, the Antonine Nymphaeum, a still-functioning Roman fountain, is one of the most uniquely preserved examples of Roman water features, a true marvel of historical preservation.
The excavated artefacts include the Emperors Marcus Aurelius and Hadrian statues, which were discovered during excavations and are now displayed in the Burdur Archaeology Museum. Other significant finds include intricate mosaics, well-preserved pottery, and inscriptions that provide valuable information about the city’s inhabitants and their way of life.
The site is open to visitors year-round, with different visiting hours in summer and winter. It’s a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts.
Excavations at Sagalassos are:
Roman Baths: well-preserved frieze slab and various other architectural elements. The baths were a central part of daily life in ancient Sagalassos. Archaeologists have uncovered a mosaic in the domestic area, providing insights into the daily lives of the city’s inhabitants
Now, let’s visit the Antoinine Dynastic Gallery, which features impressive sculptures, including the head of Emperor Marcus Aurelius and the Roman Empress Faustina. These artefacts highlight the city’s connection to the Roman imperial family.
Several major restoration projects have been undertaken to preserve and restore the excavated monuments, including the Roman Library and the Nymphaeum, a Roman fountain that still functions today.
I hope this presentation on the archaeological history of another Roman Empire city’s excavations has enlightened you about the glorious past of rich European history. Bye for now, until we meet again.
The archaeological site of Sagalassos is located in southwest Turkey, near the present town of Ağlasun (Burdur province); roughly 110 km to the north of the well-known port and holiday resort of Antalya. The ancient city was founded on the
South-facing slopes of the Taurus mountain range and was the metropolis of the Roman province of Pisidia.
