Sagalassos is a significant ancient city located on the slopes of Akdağ, at an altitude of 1500-1700 meters above sea level, in the western branches of the Western Taurus Mountains. It lies to the north of the Ağlasun district, which is part of present-day Burdur province. The city held a strategic position overseeing trade routes that connected the Pamphylian coast to Central Anatolia, making it a prominent settlement throughout history. During the Roman Imperial Period, Sagalassos became one of the most important centers in the Pisidia region. In addition to its advantageous location, the presence of abundant water sources in its vicinity contributed to the city's long-term significance as a major settlement.

Historical Development

The history of Sagalassos dates back to the Hittite Period. The city is believed to have been founded in the late third millennium BCE by the Pisidians, a branch of the Luwian tribes. By the 7th century BCE, it came under the control of the Lydian Kingdom, and from 546 BCE onward, it was ruled by the Persian Empire. During Persian rule, the local population became known for their mercenary activities.

In 333 BCE, the city was conquered by Alexander the Great. Later, in 281 BCE, it became part of the Seleucid Kingdom, experiencing administrative and economic development. In 25 BCE, Sagalassos was incorporated into the Roman Empire, and during the reign of Emperor Augustus, it flourished as a prominent city with extensive public structures. Under Emperor Hadrian (117-138 CE), Sagalassos was granted the title of "First City of Pisidia," marking its peak in economic and cultural prosperity.

However, a series of earthquakes and plague outbreaks in the 6th and 7th centuries CE led to the city's decline. As Sagalassos lost its economic and demographic strength, it gradually transformed into a rural settlement. During the Seljuk period, Turkish settlers moved into the region, establishing themselves in Ağlasun, to the south of Sagalassos, and eventually abandoned the ancient city.

Economy and Social Life

During the Roman period, Sagalassos became renowned for its pottery production. The city was particularly famous for its red-slip ceramics, which were exported to Mediterranean markets such as Ostia and Carthage. In addition to its pottery industry, the city's economy was based on agriculture, livestock farming, and mining. Infrastructure projects were developed during the reign of Emperor Augustus, including the construction of aqueducts and improvements in agricultural activities.

Architecture and Cultural Heritage

Sagalassos is one of the most striking examples of Roman engineering and art in Anatolia. The city's monumental structures include the Antonine Fountain, the Nymphaeum, the Neon Library, the Bouleuterion (Council House), the Theater, and the Lower and Upper Agoras. The Antonine Fountain, in particular, stands as an important testament to the city's advanced water engineering, benefiting from the abundance of water sources in the area.

^{Antonine Fountain}

Sagalassos also possesses remarkable works in the field of sculpture. The colossal statues of Emperor Hadrian and Marcus Aurelius stand as striking examples of artistic achievement in this domain. The city's structures prominently display architectural details characteristic of Roman design.

The Decline and Abandonment of Sagalassos

The plague outbreak and earthquakes of the 6th century CE accelerated the decline of Sagalassos. The city’s economic and social structures weakened over time, leading to the gradual migration of its inhabitants. By the 13th century, following the Seljuk conquest that eliminated the last Byzantine military stronghold in the area, Sagalassos was completely abandoned.

Archaeological Discoveries and Conservation Efforts

Sagalassos was first discovered by Western explorers in 1706, when French traveler Paul Lucas visited the site. Throughout the 19th century, several European researchers studied the city. However, systematic excavations only began in 1990, led by the Catholic University of Leuven in Belgium. The local community has actively participated in excavation and restoration efforts.

Since the 1990s, extensive excavations have uncovered and restored significant structures, including the Antonine Fountain, the Upper Agora, the Lower Agora, the theater, the city council building (Bouleuterion), the Roman bath, and the Temple of Hadrian. The Antonine Fountain was also restored to working condition.

Sagalassos remains one of the most remarkable cities of antiquity due to its strategic location, economic and cultural development throughout history. In 2009, it was added to UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List. Today, ongoing archaeological research and restoration projects continue to preserve the site. As one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Anatolia, Sagalassos holds significant historical, archaeological, and architectural value, offering immense potential for both scientific research and tourism.