Stratonikeia from Antiquity to Modern Times (original) (raw)

2024, Stratonikeia from Antiquity to Modern Times

The ancient city of Stratonikeia has had a long and rich history that goes back to the late second millennium BC, with graves from the third millennium BC discovered in the area. The city, which gained its better- known name, Stratonikeia, in the second quarter of the third century BC, has been a focal point for archaeological study in the area due to its well-preserved ruins and historical importance. Recent excavations and research have offered valuable insights into the city’s urban fabric, architecture, social structure, and daily life across different periods, from Antiquity to the present day. The continuous discoveries have sparked excitement among archaeologists and scholars, leading to new opportunities for both national and international research projects. These findings are reshaping our understanding of the city’s past and highlighting its broader cultural and historical significance. The excavation and restoration work at Stratonikeia under my direction, which began in 2008, has greatly expanded both in length and scope, transforming the site into one of the country’s most active and comprehensive archaeological projects. Notably, Stratonikeia and the nearby sanctuary of Lagina are among the first archaeological sites in the country to be excavated year-round. As campaigns have progressed, we have brought to light the remains of new buildings and established a more systematic method and consistent excavation team, allowing for continuous and rigorous study. Today, ongoing research includes every related discipline and covers all periods from the Bronze Age to the present day.