Ancient Amasra Theater

AMASRA ANCIENT THEATRE
Amasra, known in ancient times as “Amastris,” is one of the important port cities of the Black Sea coast, having hosted many civilizations throughout history. This ancient city, which stands out especially with its Roman-era works, On the southern slope of Aya Yorgi Hill The ancient theatre located in the city of Çanakkale is one of the most important structures reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the past.

Location and Historical Background

• LocationIt is located in Kum District of Amasra, on the southern slope of Aya Yorgi Hill.
• PeriodKnown to date back to the Roman period, the theatre was probably built and used for a long time during the years when the commercial and cultural importance of the region increased.
• Multi-Layered HistoryThere are many ruins from the Hellenistic, Archaic, Classical, Roman, Byzantine, Genoese, Seljuk and Ottoman periods in Amasra. The ancient theater also attracts attention as a part of this cultural mosaic.

Architectural Features and Capacity

• Design: Typical elements of Roman theatres cavea (seating area) And scene However, unfortunately these parts have not survived to the present day.
• Capacity: Approximately 5,000 people It is estimated that it was a seating area. In ancient times, this capacity indicates that shows were held for both the local people of the region and those coming from outside.
• Remains Extant: Theatre-related remains of the entrance gate It is still visible, but much of the interior has collapsed or been destroyed over time.

Use as a Cemetery and Damages

• From the 19th Century: Ancient theatre area, post 19th century cemetery It started to be used as.
• The Years of 1970-1980: During the construction of the Amasra-Bartin highway, the theatre walls were largely has been damagedSome of the stones found or present in the excavations were used in road and pavement works. used by the municipality is known.
• Current SituationSince the area still functions as a cemetery today, many parts of the ancient structure remain underground or under tombstones.

Location of Amasra Ancient Theater

*****WATCH - only the entrance to the theater is visible, other parts have disappeared or are underground.

Excavation Works and Re-Unearthing Plans

• Transfer of Graves: In order to re-discover the ancient theatre, first of all, Transfer of graves to another area Administrative and legal procedures such as must be completed.
• Excavation and Restoration: After obtaining the necessary permits, detailed excavations will be carried out by expert teams and the remains will be restoration is planned to be subject to the process.
• Tourism Potential: The unearthing of the ancient theater will not only contribute greatly to Amasra's historical tourism, but will also add an important work to Türkiye's cultural heritage.

Importance and Future Hopes

Amasra Ancient Theatre is a valuable structure inherited from the Roman period, as well as bearing the traces of many civilizations. The multi-layered history of AmasraAlthough the destruction caused by the current cemetery and road construction has destroyed most of the original architectural elements of the structure, there are still salvageable remains.

Expert opinion is that the region should be revitalized both archaeologically and touristically through professional excavations. Thanks to these studies, the potential of the ancient theatre will be revealed and a new cultural area will be created where the past and the future meet.

Conclusion: Amasra Ancient Theatre, which once hosted 5,000 people, is a concrete proof of the city's cultural richness dating back to the Roman period. If the current obstacles are overcome and the graves are properly transported, it is expected that the unearthing of the theatre will make a permanent contribution to the historical and touristic value of Amasra.