The History Of BLAUNDOS

Before the Macedonians set foot on the Acropolis, Blaundos had a settlement. Its name can be traced back to the Luwian language, spoken by one of the oldest people living in Anatolia. However, it was not until the Hellenistic period that the urbanisation of Blaundos gained momentum.

After the death of Alexander the Great in 323 BC, the area was first ruled by the late Emperor’s Macedonian commander, Antigonos Monophthalmos, followed by Lysimachos.

Following the signing of the Apamea Peace Treaty, Blaundos was incorporated into the Kingdom of Pergamon and then became one of the cities of the Roman Province of Asia in 133 BC.

Around that time, in the first century AD, it knew its most prosperous period. Many buildings in Blaundos today are from that period, especially after the 60 AD earthquake.

Excavations In Blaundos

In 1995, a team of the Uşak Museum Council conducted the first excavation plan in Blaundos, followed by a more extensive investigation between 1999 and 2002. Since 2018, the city’s excavation and restoration plans have been underway, and archaeologists work here all year round.

(Archeologist At Work At The Bath Building)

Necropolis Of Blaundos

If you want to try visiting the Necropolis of Blaundos, this is where you need to start. Facing the arch of the aqueduct, walk past the Heroon in the direction of the valley.

You will notice that the slopes around the valley and the entire city are used as cemeteries. Blaundos is the most significant rock burial ground in Anatolia, and many tombs are still well preserved.

City Gate Of Blaundos

At the highest point of Blaundos, just in front of the city gate, are the remains of the North Temple. The temple used to have a large courtyard with a massive entrance to the south, surrounded by collonaded galleries. Today, it is not the Northern Temple that catches your attention upon arrival; it is a monumental city gate.

It is an arched tower built in the Hellenistic period and was expanded several times during the Roman era. The city gate of Blaundos may not be its most famous landmark, but it is the best preserved.

The Well Preserved City Gate

Roman Bath House At Blaundos

Blaundos’ new gem is undoubtedly the Roman Baths found near the stadium terrace.

The Bath part that is currently being excavated is a hot spot. Archaeologists have discovered and documented the heating system, which was later recovered.

Studies have shown that the Bath Building was built with marble from a local quarry.

After the baths and stadium is another temple. The Southern Temple dedicated to Demeter is an Ionic Order Temple built around 50 AD. It is located in a large courtyard, accessed through a pillar from the main street.

There are not many remains of the Temple of Demeter, but there are many activities around the Temple and Colonnade, so things may start to be different soon! Only a few pillars of the Doric Portico of Colonnade Street survived, enough to give you a glimpse of the former style.

Iconıc Image Of Blaundos

South of the Colonnade Street is a Basilica, followed by a public building, the remains of which are now the most iconic image of the ancient city of Blaundos.

This is the part of the site which people label Stonehenge in Anatolia. There may be some similarities from a distance, but they are not comparable. Blaundos deserves its title because we believe that this active archaeological site still has many surprises.

Even in the current state of being largely unexcavated, Blaundos is well worth a visit because of its spectacular location and the fact that the work of archaeologists can be seen.

When Ruins Become Art

Places Nearby

Tripolis, ancient city with 4 names (42 km)

The beautiful mosques of Pamukkale,  look at these murals! (46 km)

Buldan, weaver’s town waiting to be discovered (48km)

Hierapolis, the underrated site behind Pamukkale (48 km)

Practical Information

The ancient city of Blaundos is a great place to visit, and it is easy to combine with other nearby sites, such as the Ulubey Canyon or the glass observation deck of the Clandras Bridge. The site has good road signs and is easy to reach by car.

Blaundos does not have public transportation, so if you do not have a car, you will need to take a taxi to get there.
Blaundos has an official opening and closing times. Nevertheless, it is still an open secret that the site is loved by astrophotographers. As long as you respect the cultural heritage and natural environment, the authorities will respect this. There are no on-site facilities, so please bring enough water, items that can protect you from the sun, and wear sturdy shoes, especially if you plan to stroll further away.