Re-erected columns to revive Temple of Zeus in Milas, Mugla region
During Excavations conducted at the Temple of Zeus Lepsynos, which is one of the best preserved Roman temples in Anatolia in the Milas district of Mugla, 2500 year old two marble statues and an inscription were found.
Excavations are continuing in the ancient city of Euromos, which is considered to be one of the important cities of the Carian period. Experts said that work was carried out on the walls, temples, agoras, theaters, baths in the region.
Euromos has long been decried as one of the “luckiest ancient cities in Anatolia” due to its location. Meanwhile, specialists began to implement important projects related to the Temple of Zeus Leps Decos. Excavations were carried out at the temple which was built with donations in the 2nd century BC. During these works, the following was carried out: “Experts displaced about 250 blocks stacked on top of each other on the southern facade of the temple and moved them to the appropriate area for use in restoration work. After that work was completed, they started the excavation work, hoping that there were architectural blocks under the ground. They came across surprises while waiting for architectural blocks. 2 Statues and an inscription appeared from under the ground. 2 very important rings of archaic period sculpture missing from the Carian region and an inscription dated to the Hellenistic period were uncovered, here.
The statues which are thought to be about 2,500 years old, were called “KUROS”. It is stated that the origins of the statues of kuros, which means “young man standing”, are Egyptian, Phoenician and Assyrian.
The goal of restoring the temple to its former glory
The Hellenistic inscription found during the excavations is also of a nature that will have very important consequences for the history of Caria. It is expected that this will shed a light on the unknown pages of history.
Officials point out that the Temple and the artifacts are the common heritage of mankind and emphasizes that their primary goal is to restore the Temple of Zeus Lepsynos to its former glory by restoration.
