The Mausoleum and Sacred Area of Hecatomnus The Mausoleum of Hecatomnus is an extraordinary archaeological monument situated on the eastern slope of Hisarbaşı Hill within the Milas District of Muğla, Turkey. It ranks among the most outstanding burial sites in the Mediterranean region. The design of the Mausoleum of Hecatomnus suggests it was built in the early 4th century BC. Compelling evidence points to this mausoleum belonging to Hecatomnus, as burial traditions of that period often involved entombing leaders in the heart of the city. Since Mylasa served as the capital then, it is highly probable that Hecatomnus was interred there. Additionally, the bas-reliefs on his sarcophagus further highlight his importance to Mylasa, reinforcing the claim that this mausoleum was indeed his final resting place. The Mausoleum and Sacred Area of Hecatomnus consists of various components, including the Temenos Wall, Menandros Column, podium, mausoleum, sarcophagus, and dromos. The Temenos Wall surrounds a terrace approximately 10 meters high, featuring a double row of marble bossage blocks on both its interior and exterior sides. These walls date back to the era of Emperor Augustus, enhancing the site's historical value. Located at the eastern edge of the podium, the Menandros Column is an impressive monument dedicated to Menandros and adorned with Corinthian-style ornamentation. It is believed that a statue once crowned the column. The style and inscription suggest it was constructed during the reign of Augustus. The podium itself measures 29m x 36m x 3m and is elevated by five steps above ground level. Its outer walls are built from rectangular blocks of rare Sodra marble, while the inner walls, standing 3 meters tall, are made from granite and follow the contour of the five steps. The Mausoleum consists of three primary parts: the Load-bearing Room, the Burial Chamber, and the dromos leading to the sarcophagus. The Burial Chamber is constructed from travertine blocks and is designed with multiple levels. The Mausoleum of Hecatomnus stands as an important architectural achievement that influenced the design and building methods of subsequent structures. It has offered crucial information for the reconstruction or representation of the burial chamber of the Mausoleum at Halicarnassus located in Bodrum (also known as the Tomb of Mausolus), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. If you have any questions or would like more information about The Mausoleum and Sacred Area of Hecatomnus, please feel free to reach out to us at [email protected] or simply send us a message via Whatsapp, and we will reply promptly.