Ancient theater to host culture events

ADANA – Anadolu Agency

The ancient theater of Magarsus is estimated to hold a capacity of 3,000 people. AA Photo

The ancient city theater in Magarsus in Adana’s Karataş district, where excavations have been ongoing since last year, will again host culture and arts events after a 2,500-year interlude.

Nearly 60 percent of the ancient city, which dates back to the 5th century B.C., has been unearthed so far. The sea-view theater is 150-meters-long and 30-meters-wide and is estimated to hold a capacity of 3,000 people.

Çukurova University Professor Fatih Gülşen, the excavation’s scientific consultant, said Magarsus was one of the most important coastal towns of the ancient world. Huge structures, such as theaters, baths, stadiums and state buildings left their marks on the city.

“Alexander the Great came to the city in 333 B.C. and sacrificed animals here for the Temple of Athens,” he said. Gülşen said the excavations would end in 12 to 14 months, and that the theater would be completely unearthed. Once the works are completed, the team will begin documentation.

“Each stone will be placed in its original place. We plan to organize cultural activities here for the ancient theater to contribute to Turkey’s culture and tourism,” he said.

Adana Provincial Culture and Tourism Director Sabri Tari said Adana held large potential in its culture and tourism offerings, with 760 registered archaeological areas, 545 castles and 49,000 archaeological and ethnographical works. He said the ancient theater of Magarsus would be as magnificent as the Side and Aspendos theaters.