The Gordion Museum (Turkish: Gordion Müzesi) is a museum in Gordion, Turkey. It is located on the site of the ancient city of Gordion, which was the capital of the Phrygian Empire. The museum was founded in 1963, and has a collection of over 20,000 artifacts from the site. The museum is divided into two sections: the archaeological section and the ethnographic section. The archaeological section contains artifacts from the Neolithic Age to the Ottoman Empire. The ethnographic section contains artifacts from the local villages. The museum also has a library, a research center, and a restaurant.
The Gordion Museum, also known as the Gordion Archaeological Site and Museum, is located near the modern-day Turkish village of Yassıhöyük, approximately 80 kilometers southwest of Ankara, the capital city of Turkey. Here is some information about the Gordion Museum:
1. Gordion Archaeological Site: The Gordion Museum is situated within the larger Gordion Archaeological Site, which encompasses the remains of the ancient city of Gordion. Gordion was the capital of the Phrygian Kingdom and played a significant role in Anatolian history.
2. History: The ancient city of Gordion has a history that spans over 4,000 years, with evidence of settlement dating back to the Bronze Age. It reached its peak during the Iron Age when it served as the political and cultural center of the Phrygian Kingdom.
3. Museum Collection: The Gordion Museum houses a collection of artifacts that were excavated from the Gordion Archaeological Site. The collection provides insights into the history, culture, and daily life of the ancient Phrygians who inhabited the region.
4. Phrygian Artifacts: The museum exhibits a wide range of Phrygian artifacts, including pottery, bronze and iron tools, weapons, jewelry, and other objects. These artifacts showcase the artistic and technological achievements of the Phrygians and shed light on their craftsmanship and cultural practices.
5. Highlights: One of the highlights of the Gordion Museum is the famous wooden burial chamber known as the Gordion Tomb. This tomb, believed to belong to King Midas or a member of his family, was discovered in the late 1950s and is known for its intricate wooden carvings and rich burial offerings. The tomb is not displayed in its entirety at the museum, but some of its artifacts and reconstructions are exhibited.
6. Museum Building: The Gordion Museum is housed in a modern building that is designed to harmonize with the archaeological site and its surroundings. The architecture and layout of the museum aim to create an immersive and informative experience for visitors.
7. Educational Programs: The museum may offer educational programs, guided tours, and workshops to enhance visitors' understanding of the ancient city of Gordion and its archaeological findings. These programs may cater to different age groups and educational levels.
8. Visiting Information: If you plan to visit the Gordion Museum, here are some practical details:
- Address: Gordion Archaeological Site, Yassıhöyük, Polatlı, 06930 Ankara, Turkey.
- Opening Hours: The museum's opening hours may vary depending on the season. It is advisable to check the official website or contact the museum directly for the most up-to-date information regarding visiting hours and any temporary closures.
- Admission Fees: There may be an admission fee to enter the Gordion Museum. The fees may vary for different categories of visitors, such as adults, students, and senior citizens. It is recommended to check the official website or contact the museum for information on admission fees.
Please note that museum hours, admission fees, and exhibition details are subject to change. It's advisable to verify the information before your visit by checking the official website or contacting the Gordion Museum directly.