türkçe links to original Turkish article
(Hürriyet Newspaper, 18 September 2017)
The glory that was (ahead of) Rome, a thousand miles away.
The foundations of a hippodrome and temple constructed during the
Roman era in Antakya (Hatay), which has played host to many
civilizations throughout history, have begun to emerge. After the
excavations are completed a 20-hectare (1 hectare = 10,000 square
meters or 2.471 acres) 'Arkeopark' (archaeological park) will be
established in the city.
The excavation work began in 2013 under the auspices of Hatay
Mustafa Kemal University. The hippodrome and temple are located
160 meters from one another. Built in the first century B.C., the
hippodrome is about 500 meters long and 75 meters wide, having a
seating capacity for 80,000 people.
Prof. Dr. Hatice Pamir explained that in those days Antakya was
considered one of the world's largest cities, along with Rome and
Alexandria, so the structures are a reflection of Antakya's splendor.
According to Dr. Pamir, the Antakya hippodrome is older and more
magnificent than the one in Rome.
Dr. Pamir added that "the inner arena of the hippodrome is 492
meters in length so a chariot could make a one kilometer lap. We
think there were two seating levels that could accommodate 80,000
spectators. It was grander and more splendid than the 'Circus
Maximus' that was built during the same era but a bit later in Rome.
Hiç yorum yok:
Yorum Gönder