Pepouza & Tymion Ancient City Pepouza, an ancient city situated in the Karahallı district of Uşak Province, was initially established as a Phrygian settlement. From the mid-2nd century6th century, Pepouza was the central hub of Montanism, an early Christian sect. Montanists believed that the Heavenly Jerusalem would descend to earth at both Pepouza and Tymion. This conviction drew followers from all over the Roman Empire, helping Montanism spread well beyond its original Phrygian roots. A notable feature of Montanism was its advancement of women's roles. Women were permitted to serve as priests and even bishops, which was highly uncommon in early Christian traditions. This practice originated with the movement's founder, Montanus (distinct from Saint Montanus), in the 2nd century CE. Despite its early influence, Montanism declined and disappeared by the late 6th century. Since 2001, archaeologists Peter Lampe from the University of Heidelberg and William Tabbernee from Tulsa have been conducting yearly excavations in Phrygia, Turkey. Their efforts concentrated on finding the lost sacred locations of Montanism, namely Pepouza and Tymion. These sites had eluded scholars since the 19th century, and their identification has greatly enhanced understanding of the movement. The ancient site near the village of Karayakuplu, in the Karahallı district, was confirmed as Pepouza by Tabbernee and Lampe. The settlement existed continuously from Hellenistic times through the Byzantine period and featured a prominent rock-cut monastery that functioned as a vital religious center during Byzantine rule. Although now regarded as a lost sect, Montanism was deeply influenced by the Cybele mother goddess cult. The movement strongly promoted gender equality, setting it apart from other Christian groups of the era. Women played prominent leadership roles, with two of the sect’s three founders being female. Montanus forbade remarriage following the death or divorce of a spouse, emphasizing the principle of lifelong monogamy. He also asserted that after Christ’s crucifixion, the divine spirit was transferred to him directly. In a trance-like state, Montanus would preach and deliver prophecies, claiming to speak with God's authority. If you have any questions or would like more information about the Pepouza & Tymion Ancient City, please feel free to contact us at [email protected] or simply send us a message via WhatsApp, and we will respond promptly.