Archaeologists have unearthed a 2,200-year-old agora, or town square, in the ancient city of Aigai in Manisa, western Turkey. The agora, located next to a council building, features reliefs depicting bulls’ heads and inscriptions related to Apollo, an important god in ancient Greek and Roman mythology associated with many aspects of life.
The discovery was made during ongoing excavations at the site, which dates back 2,700 years.
Led by Professor Yusuf Sezgin, Head of the Department of Archaeology at Manisa Celal Bayar University, the team has been working at the site for 21 years. Sezgin stressed the importance of the agora, describing it as the heart and center of the ancient city.
“This area was where all public buildings were concentrated and served as the center of daily life,” Sezgin explained. “The square is surrounded by ‘stoas’ or colonnades, which makes it a lively place.”
Sezgin stressed the importance of the Agora within Aigai and pointed out that parts of the building are being restored and preserved. He pointed out that the construction of the Agora and the Council building dates back 2,200 years, a period documented by archaeological finds.
Interesting finds were made during the excavation, including bull head reliefs under the roofs of the stoa. “These reliefs are significant because bull heads were often depicted in connection with gods in ancient times,” said Sezgin.
“We have come across some examples of this in antiquity and it is probably related to Apollo. Nearby we found inscriptions related to the god. Such stoas usually have simple architectural designs, but if they are related to offerings, these reliefs could indicate a ritual or connection to the gods. This could be related to an important battle or a dedication to the gods after the city was rebuilt,” concluded Sezgin.
