Antakya
Country: Turkey
Region: Middle East
Period: ~ 300BCE-7th c.CE
Location: 36.204722°N, 36.181667°E
Description
Antioch, founded around 300 BCE by Seleucus I Nicator, was a major city of the Seleucid Empire, located near the Orontes River in modern-day Turkey. It was designed as a Hellenistic metropolis with wide avenues, temples, theaters, and a grid-like street plan, serving as a key administrative, military, and cultural hub for the empire.
Modern Remains
Modern-day Antakya preserves the legacy of ancient Antioch, although much of the original city lies beneath newer developments. Archaeological discoveries include mosaic floors, parts of city walls, and remnants of Roman and Byzantine structures. The renowned Antioch mosaics, now in museums, reflect the city's artistic richness. Excavations continue to reveal its deep historical layers and multicultural past.