Investigation into Earthquake Traces at Muğla Lagina Hecate Sanctuary
Excavations Continue in Lagina to Unearth Ancient Temple and Sanctuary
The ongoing excavation work in Lagina, which was initiated by Osman Hamdi Bey 132 years ago and is the first-ever excavation conducted by a Turk, is now being led by Prof. Dr. Bilal Söğüt.
The primary goal of the current excavations is to uncover the largest sanctuary and temple dedicated to the goddess Hecate, which holds significant importance in pagan beliefs.
Prof. Dr. Bilal Söğüt, the Head of Stratonikeia and Lagina Excavations, highlighted the historical and religious significance of the region. He stated that this site is the largest religious center dedicated to Hecate and houses the largest temple in her name.
This year, the excavations have focused on the area where officials and visitors entered during ancient ceremonies. In this area, remnants from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods have been unearthed. By combining the discovered blocks from the ceremonial gate and creating a 3D model, visitors now have the opportunity to witness the structures as they were in previous eras.
One significant finding has been the detection of earthquake marks throughout the sanctuary and neighboring settlement. The region was severely affected by earthquakes during the ancient times. Notably, an earthquake in 139 AD, during the Roman period, caused significant damage. In this year’s Lagina excavation, traces of an earthquake measuring more than 7 magnitudes in 365 AD have been discovered. Researchers are documenting the collapse of the massive horizontally and vertically connected structure due to the force of the earthquake.
Additionally, some areas of Lagina have been found to have shifted entirely to the east as a result of earthquakes. To further understand the impact of these earthquakes, a team of geologists, archaeologists, and architects will conduct more detailed studies in the region. Their aim is to ascertain the extent of the damage caused by the earthquakes and how the structures were affected.
Once the excavation work is complete, there are plans to create an area where the traces of ancient earthquakes in the region will be exhibited. This exhibition aims to provide visitors with a visual representation of the historical earthquakes and how they shaped the area.
Prof. Dr. Söğüt emphasized that the excavations will continue without interruption until the end of the year. The ongoing work in Lagina promises to shed light on the ancient history and religious practices centered around Hecate, as well as the seismic activity that impacted the region throughout the ages.
