The ancient city of Kyzikos is located within the borders of modern-day Erdek district in Balıkesir Province, near the southern tip of the Kapıdağ Peninsula, a region known in antiquity as Arktonnesos (Bear Island). In its early history, Kapıdağ was an island, but after the 2nd century AD, it became connected to the mainland, forming a peninsula. The fact that ancient sources refer to it both as an island and a peninsula indicates that its geographical structure changed over time. The city’s strategic harbors and natural port features made it a significant center for maritime trade.
Historical Background
The first inhabitants of the city of Kyzikos are believed to have been the Doliones, who migrated from Thessaly. However, the formal history of the city is generally dated to 756 BCE, with the establishment of a colony by Miletos.
Over time, Kyzikos came under the rule of the Lydians, Persians, Macedonians, and eventually the Romans. In 546 BCE, with the fall of the Lydian Kingdom, the city came under Persian control. During Alexander the Great’s campaign in Anatolia, Kyzikos was granted special administrative privileges in return for its resistance.
During the Roman Empire, particularly in the 1st and 2nd centuries CE, Kyzikos experienced significant growth. Despite suffering from two major earthquakes in 117 and 155 CE, the city was rebuilt and continued to flourish. Especially during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, monumental structures like the Temple of Hadrian contributed to the architectural and cultural enrichment of the city.
In 297 CE, under the provincial reorganization of Emperor Diocletian, Kyzikos was designated as the capital of the province of Hellespontus. This elevated the city’s administrative and political status. At this point, Kyzikos had become a religious, commercial, and cultural center, known throughout the Mysia region for its coinage, public buildings, and monumental architecture.
Architectural Structures
Temple of Hadrian
The most magnificent structure of ancient Kyzikos is the Temple of Hadrian. Constructed in the Corinthian order with a dipteral (double colonnade) plan, the temple features an 8x16 column layout and was built across three levels. Its construction was supported by Emperor Hadrian. Ancient sources reference the sculptures and reliefs that adorned the temple, which indicate its importance in both architectural and artistic terms. The temple continued to hold cultural significance even beyond the Roman period.
Amphitheater
Kyzikos was home to one of only three amphitheaters in Anatolia. With an elliptical plan measuring 155 x 180 meters, the structure was designed to host gladiatorial combat as well as water-based spectacles (naumachiae). The seating rows, stage area, and entrances of the amphitheater are still partially visible today.
Theater
The city's theater dates back to the Hellenistic period and features an orchestra with a diameter of approximately 55 meters. Decorative architectural fragments from the stage building are stylistically attributed to the Antonine period. This structure served as a key venue for cultural events and public gatherings.
Agoras
Two agora areas have been identified in Kyzikos. One is located adjacent to the city wall in the south, while the other lies northwest of the Temple of Hadrian. These spaces functioned as centers of trade and social life and have yielded significant architectural remains.
Other Structures
Additional buildings found in the city include:
- Bouleuterion (council house)
- Gymnasium
- Mosaic-decorated buildings
- Colonnaded streets
- Monumental tombs
These structures were generally built using finely cut stone, and many exhibit high levels of craftsmanship, especially in public architecture.
Archaeological Findings
Excavations and surface surveys in Kyzikos have revealed numerous sarcophagi and tombstones, most of which are dated to the 1st–3rd centuries CE. These findings reflect Roman funerary practices and stonework traditions. Monumental tombs, constructed with precision-cut stone and often bearing inscriptions, provide further insight into the city’s funerary culture.
Mosaic floors and architectural details recovered from decorated buildings have been evaluated by art historians as representing characteristics of both Byzantine and Roman periods.
Additional artifacts such as ancient column capitals, frieze fragments, reliefs, ceramic wares, and architectural sculpture pieces offer valuable information about daily life and artistic expression in the city.
Economy and Trade
Thanks to its geographic location, Kyzikos controlled both the Sea of Marmara and the Dardanelles, making it a major trade hub. The city was especially known for its olive, olive oil, and wine production. From the 6th century BCE onward, it minted gold and electrum coins, showcasing its economic strength. These coins circulated not only in Anatolia but also across the Balkans and the Black Sea coasts. In order to maintain the quality of its wine, the city appointed an official known as the Oinophylax (wine steward).
In antiquity, Kyzikos stood out as a city of great political, economic, and religious significance. With its impressive architecture, trade capacity, and administrative roles, it became one of the most developed urban centers of the Mysia region. Ongoing archaeological research continues to document the city's past in an increasingly systematic manner.
