Director: Umut Kebabcı, Client: TGA, Agency: FCB Art Group Don't Miss It, 2019
Ani Archaeological Site
Ani is a ruined medieval Armenian city situated in eastern Turkey, near the border with Armenia. Once the capital of the Bagratid Armenian kingdom, Ani thrived between the 10th and 11th centuries CE, controlling a vital branch of the Silk Road. Known for its impressive religious buildings, palaces, and fortifications, Ani was nicknamed the "City of 1,001 Churches." The city's architecture, particularly the Cathedral of Ani, is celebrated for its innovation and artistry, showcasing the sophistication of medieval Armenian urbanism. Ani's strategic location made it a coveted prize for various empires, leading to conquests by the Byzantines, Seljuks, and Georgians. However, a devastating earthquake in 1319, coupled with the shifting of trade routes, led to the city's decline and eventual abandonment. Today, Ani stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, its ruins offering a poignant glimpse into the grandeur of a lost civilization and the complex history of the region.
İshak Pasha Palace
İshak Pasha Palace, located in eastern Turkey, is a remarkable testament to late Ottoman architecture. Built in the 18th century, this semi-ruined palace complex showcases a unique blend of architectural styles, including Ottoman, Seljuk, and even European influences like Gothic and Baroque. Perched on a hilltop, it offers stunning views and houses various structures like a mosque, harem, and administrative buildings, all adorned with intricate stone carvings and decorations. Though partially damaged over time, Ishak Pasha Palace remains a significant historical and cultural landmark.
Pergamon Archaeological Site
Pergamon, located in modern-day Turkey, was an ancient Greek city renowned as a major center of Hellenistic culture. It boasted impressive architectural wonders, including the Great Altar of Pergamon, a massive library, and a steep theater. Pergamon was also a prominent political and intellectual hub, known for its advancements in medicine, philosophy, and the arts. The city's legacy is preserved in its ruins, offering a glimpse into its glorious past.
Patara Archaeological Site
Patara, located in modern-day Turkey, was a prominent Lycian city dating back to the 8th century BC. Renowned as a major maritime and trading hub, it boasted a significant harbor and served as a crucial link within the Lycian League. The city's strategic position on the Mediterranean coast facilitated its rise as a bustling center for commerce and cultural exchange. Patara's historical importance is evidenced by its impressive ruins, including a well-preserved theater, bouleuterion (council chamber), and numerous temples and public buildings. These architectural remnants stand as testaments to the city's past grandeur and its pivotal role in the ancient world.
Phaselis Archaeological Site
Phaselis was a prominent ancient Greek and Roman city located on the coast of Lycia, in present-day Turkey. Its strategic location on an isthmus blessed it with three harbors, making it a vital hub for trade between Greece, Asia, Egypt, and Phoenicia. Founded in 690 BC by Rhodians, Phaselis thrived for centuries, changing hands between Persians, Greeks, and Romans, leaving behind a rich tapestry of ruins including temples, an agora, a theater, and baths. Today, Phaselis is a popular tourist destination, offering a glimpse into its glorious past amidst the beautiful backdrop of the Mediterranean coast.
Kaunos Archaeological Site
Kaunos, an ancient city in modern-day Turkey, was a melting pot of Carian and Lycian cultures. Its strategic location on the border of these regions, along the Dalyan River, allowed it to flourish as a port city. Today, its impressive ruins, including rock-cut tombs, a theater, and the remains of temples, offer a glimpse into its rich past. Kaunos was abandoned in the 15th century AD due to malaria and the silting of its harbor.
Sardes Archaeological Site
Sardis, located in modern-day Turkey, was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Lydia. It was renowned for its wealth, derived from the gold-bearing Pactolus River and its strategic location on trade routes. Sardis was the first city to mint gold and silver coins, and under King Croesus, it reached its peak, becoming a major economic and cultural center. The city's remains include the Lydian citadel, the Temple of Artemis, and a vast necropolis with impressive tumuli. Sardis played a significant role in the history of the region, witnessing the rise and fall of various empires, from the Lydians and Persians to the Romans and Byzantines.