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Rivers and Trade Routes
Western Anatolia is shaped by several important rivers that flow from the interior toward the Aegean Sea. These rivers are dry for most of...
The Lydians and Their Influence
In addition to their strong skills in sailing and trade, the Greek cities of western Anatolia faced an important political power to the east:...
From Villages to City-States
Literary sources and archaeological evidence suggest that many early settlements in western Anatolia began as small villages ruled by hereditary kings. Over time, especially...
Distinguishing the Palaces of Constantinople
Two main points support the idea that the Palace of the Bucoleon and the Palace of Hormisdas were separate buildings. First, the Anonymus explicitly...
Identifying the Harbour of the Bucoleon
With the evidence regarding the famous group of the Lion and the Bull, it is clear that the Harbour of the Bucoleon was located...
The Gate of Tchatlady Kapou
On the western headland of the small bay in front of the Bucoleon Harbour stood an old slaughter-house. This building has long been used...
Earthquake Damage and Repairs in the Late 10th Century
In the year 975, during the final years of Emperor John I Tzimiskes, a strong earthquake struck Constantinople. The tremors caused significant damage to...
Identifying the Empress Irene in the Inscriptions
There is some uncertainty about which Empress Irene is referred to in one of the wall inscriptions. If the inscription belongs to the reign...
Restoration of the Theodosian Walls under Justin and Sophia
An inscription found on the Theodosian Walls of Constantinople reads:
“The Outwork of the Theodosian Wall was restored under Justin and Sophia, our most pious...
The Hall of the Holy Garment The Most Sacred Place in Turkey
The Chirkau Scherif, or Hall of the Holy Garment, is considered the most sacred place in all of Turkey. This special room is located...














