Sagalassos Ancient CityPlaces to Visit in Burdur

Sagalassos, located in the Burdur province of southwestern Turkey, is recognized as one of the most well-preserved ancient cities in the nation. Positioned more than 100 kilometers north of the coastal city of Antalya, it was historically the leading urban center of ancient Pisidia, a region that stretches from the Taurus Mountains in the south to the Mediterranean Sea, and up to the Anatolian plateau in the north.

Perched on south-facing hillsides at elevations between 1,450 and 1,600 meters above sea level, Sagalassos expanded over time to include the adjacent valleys within its city limits. The city boasts a rich heritage, having been conquered by Alexander the Great in 333 BC during his Persian campaign. Following its incorporation into the Roman Empire in 25 BC, Sagalassos flourished as a key center for trade and commerce. It was integrated into the Anatolian road system and maintained connections with coastal regions of Lycia, as well as with cities in Ionia.

In ancient times, Sagalassos was renowned for exporting pottery and agricultural goods. After the death of Alexander the Great, the area was ruled by Antigonus Monophthalmus, Lysimachus of Thrace, or the Seleucid Empire of Syria. Despite its long and challenging history, Sagalassos stands as an impressive example of ancient city planning and architectural achievement.

The architectural style of Sagalassos reflects the influences of Hellenistic culture and Roman governance, which lasted for several centuries. Construction activity in the city halted between 235 CE and the 4th century CE, but administrative reforms revived building projects around 368 CE. During this era, local involvement in city administration declined, and religious transformations brought changes to the architectural designs in the later periods.

Despite its endurance, Sagalassos faced three significant setbacks in the sixth and seventh centuries that led to its gradual downfall. Each century began with a destructive earthquake, and between 541-542 CE, a plague outbreak severely affected the population. Still, the residents continued living in the city, largely relying on farming. However, by the 13th century, the city had been abandoned. A nearby settlement, Ağlasun, developed in the region, and similar to the previous occupants of Alexander’s Hill, Seljuk Turks conquered the remaining settlement around 1200 CE.

Located in Ağlasun, Sagalassos has witnessed many cycles of growth and decline over time. In the 13th century, a caravanserai and a hamam were constructed near the town square, which evolved into a vibrant commercial center by the 16th century, hosting a market of notable regional importance.

Since 1990, a team of archaeologists from the University of Leuven in Belgium has been conducting excavations at the 450-hectare site of this ancient city. Their work has uncovered impressive structures such as a vast Roman bath complex, a library, a large urban mansion featuring more than 80 rooms, and a theater capable of seating up to 9,000 spectators.

Among the most significant discoveries at Sagalassos is the Fountain of Antonine. Built between 161-180 AD during the flourishing rule of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, this fountain has been continuously flowing since it was excavated between 1993 and 1995. Restoration efforts on the fountain started in 1998 and were finalized by 2000.

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