Global academics embark on an archaeological expedition, sponsored by the Yunus Emre Institute.
The "Turkish Archaeology Summer School" is an educational initiative launched by the Yunus Emre Institute (YEE), aimed at showcasing and promoting the multilayered cultural heritage of Anatolia to international scholars [1]. This unique program brings together approximately 20 academics from 16 different countries, primarily archaeologists, art historians, museologists, and anthropologists.
The summer school itinerary takes participants on a journey across various Turkish cities, including Çanakkale, Izmir, Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Ankara, and Istanbul. In Izmir, scholars were given an opportunity to immerse themselves in civilizations dating back thousands of years, visiting sites such as Ephesus, the Agora of Smyrna, the ancient theater of Kadifekale, the ancient city of Teos, and the Izmir Culture and Arts Factory [1].
The program offers scholars direct access to archaeological sites and cultural landmarks, fostering international academic collaboration and deepening researchers' understanding of Anatolia's cultural heritage. Participants have described the experience as career-enriching and inspiring, with some considering further studies or postdoctoral programs in Turkey [1].
One participant, Mariam Eioshvili from Georgia, found her participation in the project a wonderful opportunity and values seeing excavation sites on location. Another scholar, Canadian archaeologist Jaris Darwin, appreciates the opportunity to witness Anatolian heritage in person and believes that visiting archaeological sites spanning from the Neolithic era to the Ottoman period will greatly contribute to his professional career [1].
The Yunus Emre Institute, which operates in 88 centers worldwide, seeks to promote Turkish culture and teach Turkish. This initiative aligns with their broader mission to represent and promote Turkish language, culture, art, and scientific heritage on the international stage [1].
During their visit to Izmir, scholars were guided by the excavation heads of Ephesus and Teos. Darwin was particularly impressed by the integration of digital technologies into exhibitions in Turkey, while Ane Dybkjaer from Denmark was deeply moved by her second visit to Ephesus, describing it as a magical place. The Library of Celsus in Ephesus left a particularly strong impression on Dybkjaer [1].
The Turkish Archaeology Summer School contributes to promoting Anatolia's cultural heritage by showcasing the region’s rich, millennia-old archaeological and historical heritage to global scholars, facilitating cross-cultural academic exchange, and raising international awareness about Turkey's role as a cradle of multiple ancient civilizations through immersive, educational experiences [1].
- The Turkish Archaeology Summer School also takes participants to Istanbul, providing an opportunity for scholars to explore the city's extensive arts and cultural scene, such as the Hagia Sophia and the Topkapi Palace Museum.
- In addition to academics, the program attracts individuals seeking personal growth and self-development, as the immersive learning experience offers opportunities for exploration, discovery, and introspection.
- As the program reaches Ankara, participants visit the Anatolian Civilizations Museum, which showcases artifacts from various civilizations that flourished in Anatolia, such as the Hittites, Phrygians, and Romans.
- The World Archaeology Congress recognized the Turkish Archaeology Summer School for its significant contributions to education and self-development, underscoring the program's importance in fostering a deeper understanding of the world's cultural heritage.
