Anatolian Turkish Era Excavations and Its Symposiums
Excavation and archeological research in Turkey can be dated back to the 19th century. Excavation method has acquired a scientific dimension on the basis of archeology in the early years of the Republic following Osman Hamdi Bey (1842-1910). These studies, however, cover mostly the ancient eras. The middle ages and the following periods remain within the scope of art history. After small–scale rescue operations, surface explorations and drillings, the first systematic excavations were performed in Diyarbakır, İç Kale by Oktay Aslanapa in 1961. This was followed by further excavations in Kayseri Keykubadiye Palaces, Kalehisar, Ancient Van Ulu Mosque and Beyşehir Kubad-Âbâd, which continue in any parts of Anatolia today. The findings of these excavations were presented to the world of science at special meetings such as “Museum Recovery Excavations Seminar’’ and “The Meeting Of Research Results.’’ Apart from these, there is “Middle Ages-Turkish Period Excavations and Art History Studies” symposium organized at regular intervals since 1997, which constitutes the main topic of this paper. Organized by a different university every year, these symposiums provide a detailed presentation of the related time periods. This article aims to provide a brief introduction to these studies which contribute to art history by offering great insight into architecture and Turkish ornamentation.
Zeynep Biçer
