Assos Theater, Behram Köyü, Ayvacık, Çanakkale, Turkey
Antalya’s famous Aspendos Theater may soon have some competition from the north Aegean, as cultural authorities in Çanakkale are beginning work to restore the ancient theater in the town of Assos so that it, too, can host concerts like its more famous Mediterranean cousin.
“After we finish the works, it will be possible to hold events for 4,000 to 5,000 people,” said Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University (ÇOMÜ) Archeology Department Professor Nurettin Arslan, while suggesting that some of the restorations on the ancient theater would be contingent on receiving better funding.
The ancient theater is particularly expected to host concerts and festivals during the summer months.
Noting that there were many architects, archaeologists and academics that have come to Assos to work on the acropolis, Arslan said they would first work on the hills of the ancient site, which is 238 meters above sea level and which features the remains of the Temple of Athena from the Doric Order. Six of the area’s original 38 columns are still present at the site.
Epic Turkey Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound
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