The Tombs of Sidyma [6:48]

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Transcript

Along the Liysian way, just outside the remains of the mountain city of Sidyma, is a remarkable cluster of Roman tombs. This was a temple tomb, likely built in the first or second century. The portico is gone and the tomb was robbed centuries ago, but the ceiling remarkably survives in the coffers along with rosettes. Are stylized human faces. Originally they would have been painted.

A short distance away, and also from the first or second century, are these twin sarcophagi. The lids have the usual shape with those stylized acriteria on the corners. This Roman sarcophagus has become part of the farmer’s fence. Reuse, recycle. There are more tombs in the field beyond. This appears to have been a large mausoleum.

Trying to avoid stepping on the grain.

This seems to have been a Roman temple tomb similar to the one that had the rosettes and human heads on the ceiling. Some combination of tomb robbing and earthquakes has laid it low. Originally it was a very substantial structure. The chamber appears to be still preserved. Not much to see down here, just a few burial slots on the right wall.

In the neighboring field is the largest tomb of all, still preserved to a height of 30 feet. On both sides of the lintel are stylized lions. Over the center is the head of a horse. There isn’t much to see inside, just rubble covered with brush. In the distance, however, is a wonderful view of the Liysian Mountains. Another nice set of tombs here in this pasture. I’ll let this last group speak for themselves.

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