Excavations begin at Konya’s ancient city of Lystra, unveiling secrets of world history
Excavations have begun at the ancient city of Lystra, one of the most significant cities not only for the history of Konya and Anatolia but also for world history, religions, and Christianity. Konya Metropolitan Mayor, Prof. Dr. Cem Zorlu, and Meram Mayor visited the excavation site, which has intrigued leading historians and archaeologists worldwide for the past 150 years.
The excavations at Lystra, an important Roman colony, are of great significance. Experts on site have highlighted the city’s importance not only in world history but also in religious and Christian history, particularly due to Saint Paul’s visit, making Lystra a pivotal center. Mayor Altay, Prof. Dr. Zorlu, and Mayor Kavuş expressed their admiration for the valuable artifacts unearthed, despite the excavations having only recently begun.
“LYSTRA IS ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT CITIES IN ANATOLIAN, WORLD, AND RELIGIOUS HISTORY”
Located in the Hatunsaray region south of Meram, the ancient city of Lystra has adorned the walls of many of the world’s museums, even though its remains had yet to be seen by the public. The Meram Mayor emphasized the significance of the excavations for both Anatolian and world history. The excavations are being conducted in collaboration with the Konya Metropolitan Municipality, Necmettin Erbakan University, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, Meram Municipality, and the Museum Directorate. The Mayor stated, “Three separate teams, consisting of 45 people, are working at three different points. Even as a mound, Lystra was visited by many people. We anticipate that once the artifacts are unearthed, the site will attract many tourists. Our goal is to not only shed light on history but also to revitalize tourism. When considered alongside the excavations at Kilistra, Karahüyük, and Şükran, Konya will become a true tourism hub, significantly increasing the city’s share of tourism.”
LYSTRA: A PIVOTAL POINT IN WORLD AND ANATOLIAN HISTORY
Prof. Dr. Cem Zorlu emphasized that the Lystra excavations are one of the significant projects conducted by the Art History Department of Necmettin Erbakan University and that the city’s discovery will greatly contribute to the city’s history and tourism. He stated that Lystra has been a focal point for historians and archaeologists for the past 150 years and will soon become a significant tourist destination for world, religious, and Christian history. “Lystra is the product of a remarkable collaboration. Despite the short time since the excavations began, important artifacts have already been discovered, indicating that much more will be found. We expect a significant influx of tourists and a vibrant tourism industry in the near future. I would like to thank all our stakeholders for this valuable work,” he concluded.
