Historic Achievement: Sardis and the Lydian Tumuli of Bin Tepe Officially Recognized by UNESCO World Heritage List
Ankara, Turkey – July 12, 2025 – The Republic of Türkiye is celebrating a momentous occasion today as the esteemed UNESCO World Heritage List officially welcomes two of its most significant historical and archaeological treasures: Sardis, the ancient capital of the Lydian Kingdom, and the expansive necropolis of the Lydian Tumuli at Bin Tepe. This landmark inscription, announced by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye, marks a pivotal moment in the recognition and preservation of Türkiye’s rich cultural heritage.
The announcement, bearing the official number “No: 142” and dated July 12, 2025, signifies the culmination of extensive efforts by Turkish authorities and archaeological teams to document, conserve, and promote the exceptional universal value of these remarkable sites. The inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List is a testament to the profound historical, cultural, and artistic significance that Sardis and the Bin Tepe tumuli represent, not only for Türkiye but for the entire world.
Sardis, strategically located in the Gediz River valley in modern-day Manisa province, was once a thriving metropolis and the influential capital of the Lydian Kingdom, a civilization renowned for its early adoption of coinage and its pivotal role in the ancient Near East. The archaeological remains at Sardis offer a captivating glimpse into the lives of its inhabitants, featuring well-preserved structures such as the magnificent Temple of Artemis, the impressive gymnasium and bath complex, the ancient synagogue, and the formidable Lydian royal citadel. These remnants vividly illustrate the fusion of Lydian, Persian, Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine cultures that shaped the region over millennia.
Complementing the urban splendor of Sardis, the Bin Tepe necropolis stands as a breathtaking testament to the power and prestige of the Lydian rulers. Bin Tepe, meaning “Thousand Hills,” is a vast burial ground dotted with colossal tumuli – monumental artificial mounds erected over the tombs of Lydian kings and elite members of society. These imposing structures, some of the largest burial mounds in the Anatolia, are believed to house the remains of kings like Alyattes, the father of the legendary Croesus. The scale and sophistication of these tumuli underscore the advanced social organization and the considerable resources commanded by the Lydian aristocracy.
The inscription process, overseen by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in close collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, involved rigorous evaluation and extensive documentation to demonstrate that Sardis and the Bin Tepe Tumuli meet the stringent criteria for World Heritage status. This includes showcasing their outstanding universal value, authenticity, and integrity, as well as the existence of adequate protection and management systems.
The recognition by UNESCO is expected to significantly boost global awareness of these invaluable historical sites, attracting increased international interest from researchers, scholars, and heritage enthusiasts. Furthermore, it will undoubtedly enhance efforts towards their ongoing conservation and sustainable management, ensuring that these irreplaceable links to our shared past are safeguarded for future generations.
The Turkish government expresses its deep gratitude to all individuals and institutions that contributed to this remarkable achievement. This inscription is not merely an acknowledgment of historical importance, but also a renewed commitment to preserving and celebrating the extraordinary cultural tapestry that defines Türkiye and enriches the world. The integration of Sardis and the Bin Tepe Tumuli into the UNESCO World Heritage List serves as a powerful reminder of humanity’s enduring legacy and the collective responsibility to protect it.
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REPUBLIC OF TÜRKİYE published ‘No: 142, 12 July 2025, Regarding the Inscription of “Sardis and the Lydian Tumuli of Bin Tepe” on the UNESCO World Heritage List’ at 2025-07-12 14:51. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.