Antalya, a city renowned for its natural beauty and cultural tourism, has witnessed extensive archaeological efforts aimed at uncovering its rich historical assets. In 2024, significant progress was reported under the 'Heritage for the Future Project,' focusing on excavation and restoration activities across various ancient cities.
According to Candemir Zoroğlu, Antalya's Director of Culture and Tourism, the year 2024 was particularly productive, with work conducted at 28 sites, including three underwater locations. The Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism provided unprecedented support, allocating 500 Turkish Liras specifically for archaeological excavations.
A total of 886 artifacts were added to museum inventories, with 527 housed in the Side Museum and the remainder distributed among the Antalya Archaeological, Alanya, and Demre Museums. Noteworthy discoveries included millefiori glass decorative panels from Myra-Andriake and an archaic find at the Liman Street excavations in Phaselis.
The artifacts from Phaselis also featured an altar structure believed to be dedicated to Apollo, alongside small votive statues. In Side, a precious sarcophagus was unearthed in the Church of St. Nicholas, and an impressive mosaic was discovered in Syedra.
Zoroğlu emphasized the significance of these findings, including a mosaic floor depicting the muse Calliope and 2,000-year-old statues of Zeus and Aphrodite in Aspendos, which are reshaping historical understanding of the region.
As work continues, Zoroğlu confirmed that the comprehensive efforts in Antalya will persist into 2025, aiming to enhance the city's status as a cultural heritage site.