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Sardis
: the
wealthy capital of the ancient Lydian Empire, is
one of the most amazing sites in Turkey. The unusual
rock formations in the nearby hills lend it a uniquely
strange atmosphere, and this curious pointed landscape
shelters hundreds of Lydian tombs, some dating back
to 7th. century BC. It is the Roman ruins of Sardis,
excavated by New York Univercity since 1958, that
are particularly impressive now, consisting of a
road lined with shops, a gymnasium, and the biggest
open air synagogue in the world. There is lovely
marble throughout, as well as mozaic flooring. The
other part of the site is situated half a mile or
so away, around the most striking monument in Sardis,
the Temple of Artemis-Zeus. Of the original 82 columns
only two remain intact, with parts of 13 others
still standing. The lonic capitals on these columns
are among the most beautiful known. Sacrifices to
the goddess were made on the altar located at the
top of the flight of steps.
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