Gordion

by Günther Eichhorn

Gordion was occupied by the Phrygians as early as the 9^th century BCE. It soon became the capital of Phrygia. It was conquered by the Cimmerians, then the Lydians, the Persians, and finally by Alexander the Great. The Galatian occupation of 278 BCE put an end to the city. One of the most famous Phrygians was King Midas (of the golden touch) from the late 8^th century BCE. The landscape of this area is dotted with tumuli (burial mounds) that cover the graves of Phrygian Kings. In 1957, the intact tomb of a Phrygian King was discovered in one of the tumuli. This king was probably buried between 740 BCE and 718 BCE. The tomb is actually a gabled cottage of cedar, surrounded by juniper logs. It is the oldest wooden structure discovered in Anatolia, and perhaps the world. The tumulus itself is 60m (200') high and 300m (1000') in diameter. It is not clear which king was buried here, it may have been the father or grandfather of King Midas.

Ruins of Gordion. (471k) The tumulus (burial mound) of Gordion. (249k) The wooden structure in the burial mound. (396k) Floor mosaic in Gordion, dating from about 750 BCE. (513k)

Main page for Turkey

All pictures are © Günther Eichhorn

Springer

101 Philip Drive

Norwell, MA 02061

USA

781-871-6600 ext. 1854

Email Guenther Eichhorn

Main Turkey page
Aerobatics website
Soaring website
Landings Aviation Server