 Excavations in the ancient city of Ephesus in Izmir province.. |  | As a result of excavations going on for 101 years in the ancient city of Ephesus in Izmir province, 6,000-year old neolithic remains have been found. | Excavations in the Cukurca tumulus 500 meters east from the Magnesia Gate of Ephesus were started in 1995. After an interruption, October 2000 excavations were re-started under the supervision of archeologist Adil Evren and prehistory expert Feride Ozen. | During the excavations an instrument used in weaving, various ceramic pieces and a stone ax have been found. Heavily damaged foundation remains and traces of a fire have also been discovered. | Officials have pointed out that in the light of the discoveries in Ephesus more detailed information about neolithic and ancient bronze eras will be obtained. | | According to the specialists, these findings have led to the conclusion that Ephesus is a much older city than so far supposed. | Another 100-person group of experts from Austria, led by Doc. Dr. Stephen Karli has completed a four-month excavation work and returned to Austria. | Some of their most important discoveries include a gladiators combat practice area and a marble ladder carved in the mountain, found during exploratory excavations in the stadium area of Ephesus. | Excavations in the Church of Mary have brought to light new details about the history of the church. Evidence suggests that the church was not existing before the Third Council held in 431, and was in fact constructed after this date. Later some changes in the building were made. | Reconstruction of the ancient theatre, damaged during various cultural activities, and going on for four years, is continuing. Now that security in the theatre has been ensured, a long term reconstruction project is planned with Austrian cooperation. | A new project for the protection of nearby mountain-side houses has been prepared. A Turco-Austrian commission has been established to follow up the studies in this area. | | | The restoration of the Hadrianus Gate, one of the most important parts of the ancient city, has been completed. | Officials draw attention to the fact that even though excavations in Ephesus have been going on for 101 years, only 15 percent of the research has been completed, adding that research could continue for another 1000 years. In the coming years, restoration, rather than new discoveries, will be given emphasis. | Laboratories are being established to help carry out research in relation to the discoveries and preserve the findings for the future. |
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