Archaeologists excited by theatre excavations in Savatra, Turkey

Exciting news has surfaced this week for archaeology enthusiasts. Archaeologists are focusing on surveying, modelling and drawing this ancient city in the hopes that it will reveal more about the life and history of this ancient area. 

The priority is to excavate the theatre complex, the stage and then its surroundings. It is thought that the works will take place over a two-month time period. 

Why is this city so important? 

The site is a settlement located in the ‘Lycaonia’ region. It’s a military garrison and was a self-governing city that was completely autonomous. It is thought that the theatre also functioned as a type of parliament building. Archaeologists feel that this is a unique discovery as theatre complexes are frequently discovered in western Anatolia but this find in Central Anatolia is quite rare and interesting. They know that this region dates back to prehistoric times as there is a mound structure here so they are fascinated to learn about the settlement and the depth of human habitation over the years. Indeed, Ceramic samples dating back to the Bronze age were found here. There are traces of 4th century BC settlements as there are minted coins in the name of Savatra. All artefacts from this site can be found exhibited in the Konya Museum.