Ancient City of Hadrianaupolis

Hadrianaupolis Ancient City is a significant settlement site located within the boundaries of Eskipazar district in Karabük province, dating to the Late Hellenistic, Roman, and Early Byzantine periods. Named after the Roman Emperor Hadrian (r. 117–138 CE), this ancient city is situated in the interior of the Black Sea region and is notable for its religious significance during the Byzantine era, rich mosaics, and architectural remains. It is regarded as one of the most comprehensive archaeological sites in northwestern Anatolia.

History and Nomenclature

The name of the ancient city was bestowed in the 2nd century CE in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. Based on inscriptions and archaeological findings, Hadrianaupolis emerged not merely as a regional center but also as an important bishopric during the early Christian period. It is evident that during the Late Roman and Byzantine periods, the settlement played a key role in supporting the region’s religious and commercial networks.

Hadrianaupolis Ancient City ( Anadolu Agency)

Archaeological Remains and Structures

Excavations and surface surveys at Hadrianaupolis have so far identified 14 distinct building complexes. Among these, the most prominent include:

• Two large churches
• Bath structures
• Theater remains
• Monumental fountains
• Water channels and cisterns
• Dwellings and defensive structures

Mosaics

One of the city’s most striking features is its floor mosaics. Particularly those found in the floors of the large churches hold significant importance in terms of Christian iconography and animal motifs. Figures such as peacocks, deer, and birds depicted in the mosaics are interpreted as symbolic expressions of early Christian art.

Asklepios Inscription

In 2022, during excavations in the city, a 1,800-year-old inscription dating to the 2nd century CE was discovered, dedicated to Asklepios (the god of medicine). This inscription suggests that Hadrianaupolis may have also been an important center for health and medical practices, beyond its religious and administrative roles. The inscription also contains information about local officials of the period alongside the name of Asklepios.

Religious Significance

During the early Christian period, Hadrianaupolis functioned as an important bishopric center. Basilica church remains dated between the 4th and 8th centuries CE attest to the city’s spiritual status and the density of the Christian population in the region. Inscriptions and symbolic decorations within the churches provide representative examples of early Christian art in the area.

Conservation and Excavation Projects

Excavation efforts are conducted in collaboration between the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Department of Archaeology at Karabük University, and the Turkish Culture Foundation. These archaeological investigations not only reveal the city’s historical layers but also contribute to the region’s cultural tourism potential. Most of the structures uncovered through excavations are being restored without compromising their original fabric.

Contemporary Significance

In addition to possessing a unique mosaic heritage, Hadrianaupolis holds the historical value of a multi-layered cultural structure spanning from the Hellenistic to the Byzantine periods. The city provides crucial insights into the ancient religious geography of the Black Sea region and offers archaeologists and art historians an extensive field of research through its mosaics, inscriptions, and architectural details.