2024-12-02 11:43:00
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preserved in its original form
The ancient city of Prusia in Hypia, sometimes called Ephesus on the western coast of the Black Sea, was formerly known as “Gypios” and “Kyros”. it was captured by Prusius I of Bithynia and the people of Bithynia renamed it in honour of their king. Subsequently Bithynia ceded the kingdom to the Romans. The city was already notable for its rich architecture, but flourished especially during the Roman period.
Prousias ad Gipium is famous for structures such as an ancient theater, aqueducts and a Roman bridge. The theatre’s semi-circular seat,known locally as “40 Basamaklar”,is 100 meters long and 74 meters wide. The steps of the theater are decorated with lion claw figurines, the vaulted passages and the stage have been preserved.
The city was founded in the 3rd century BC and has survived numerous earthquakes, but the theater structure remains intact.
The excavations,which began five years ago with the approval of the General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museums,continue thanks to the support of the Municipality of Duzce. Work under the direction of the Konuralpa Museum management takes place all year round.
Düzce Mayor Faruk Özlü, speaking at the excavation site, stressed the importance of preserving the city’s 2,300 years of history.
Ozlü also added that around 80% of the theater area is already open to visitors and contains past relics of both local and national importance.Archaeologists also found, according to the official, priceless artifacts in excellent condition.
At the end of the restoration work, the ancient theater will become a cultural center with a capacity of up to 10 thousand people. The ancient city of Prusia in Hypia is expected to open to tourists in 2025.
Angelina BRZHEVSKAYA.
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