Aphrodisias

Aphrodisias is in Turkey, about 230kms from Izmir and as its name implies it was named after Aphrodite, the goddess of love. This was not its original name, it had three others before that. Excavations were begun here in the early 1960s and have continued. The site is in an earthquake zone and a lot of damage was done here at various times and in particular, in the 4th and 7th centuries. An added complication was that one of the earthquakes in the 4th century altered the water table and from then on certain areas were prone to flooding. Evidence can be seen of emergency plumbing which was installed to combat this problem.The city never fully recovered from the 7th century 'quake and fell into disrepair, being covered eventually by a village named Geyre built on top of the ruins. Some of the cottages existed there until the 20th century when steps were taken to have them removed. A new Geyre was built a short distance away. The Temple of Aphrodite was and still is a focal point but the character of the building was altered when it was turned into a Christian basilica. The Aphrodisian sculptors became renowned and the school of sculpture was very productive, a lot of their work being seen around the site and in the museum. Many full-length statues were discovered in the region of the agora, and trial and unfinished pieces pointing to a true school are in evidence. Sarcophagi were found in various locations and the most frequently used decoration on these is of the garland and columnar variety. Pilasters were found showing what are described as "peopled scrolls" with figures of people, birds and animals entwined in acanthus leaves. The sculptors benefitted from a plentiful supply of marble close at hand. There were many notable buildings, including the stadium which is said to be probably the best preserved of its kind in the Mediterranean. It measured 262m. by 59m.and was used for athletic events until the 7th century when the theatre was badly damaged in an earthquake and part of the stadium was converted for events previously staged there.