Hadrian Statue Re-erected in the Ancient City of Kibyra
A marble statue of Roman Emperor Hadrian found during excavations in the Ancient City of Kibyra has been re-erected following meticulous restoration work.
During excavation and restoration work carried out in the Ancient City of Kibyra under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism's Legacy for the Future Project, fragments of a marble statue were unearthed at the Monumental City Gate, which is believed to have collapsed in the earthquake of 417 AD. As a result of work carried out by experts, the 2.14-meter-tall statue of Roman Emperor Hadrian has been re-erected.
Works Within the Scope of the Legacy for the Future Project
Excavations carried out within the scope of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism's Legacy for the Future Project revealed new findings regarding Kibyra's importance during the Roman period. The statue restoration work in 2026 was carried out by the excavation and restoration team.
Shedding Light on the Unknown Aspects of the Ancient City
Kibyra Excavation Head Prof. Dr. Şükrü Özüdoğru stated that with the excavations carried out since 2006, they aim to uncover the unknown aspects of the ancient city and present the area better to visitors.
The Monumental Gate and Fragments Destroyed in the Earthquake
Recent work has concentrated on the Monumental City Gate, one of the important structures of the city. It was noted that fragments belonging to 4 marble statues, which are thought to have been exhibited in the upper section of the structure, were most likely broken by falling from a height during the earthquake that occurred in 417 AD.
Integrity of the Hadrian Statue Achieved
It was reported that a total of 20 statue fragments, including arms, legs, and feet, were unearthed at different stages of the excavations. With the discovery of an intact portrait head belonging to Roman Emperor Hadrian among the fragments, the integrity of the statue was largely ensured.
Features and Material Structure of the Statue
In the statue, which was made using Afyon-Döğer and İscehisar marble, Hadrian is depicted in a military type, and it was determined that lion and eagle figures were carved in relief on his armor.
Other Important Artifacts Unearthed
It was understood that one of the 4 statues identified in the excavations belongs to Hadrian's wife, Empress Sabina. Additionally, an armored emperor statue, a female statue in two pieces, and a male statue head were also uncovered.
Dating of the Artifacts and Museum Process
It is planned that the artifacts, which were stated to have been produced between 117-138 AD and can be dated to approximately the 130s AD, will be delivered to the Burdur Museum Directorate after the completion of restoration and brought together with visitors in the exhibition halls.