Fund-raiser set for May 8 for archaeological excavations in Turkey
calendar icon04 May 2017
Lincoln, Neb.-- The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s School of Art, Art History & Design is hosting a special event to help raise funds for the archaeological excavation of Antiochia ad Cragum in Turkey.
The event is Monday, May 8 from 7-9 p.m. in the Eisentrager-Howard Gallery in Richards Hall. Admission is free and open to the public. Information on how to make a contribution to the excavation project through the University of Nebraska Foundation will be provided that evening.
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln is one of an elite group of universities in the U.S. that offers as a world-class research program an archaeological excavation in Turkey. Under the direction of Hixson-Lied Professor of Art History Michael Hoff, the excavation has been in operation since 2005. The excavation is being conducted at the Roman-era (ca. A.D. 50 to 700) city of Antiochia ad Cragum (Antioch on the Cliffs), located in the Roman province of Cilicia on the Turkish south coast.
The area of the ancient city is fairly large, encompassing an area approximately the size of UNL’s campus and may have enjoyed a population of 5,000-6,000 people. Since 2005 the Antiochia ad Cragum Archaeological Research Project (ACARP) has made tremendous progress in bringing to light much of the ancient city’s former glory.
“We have unearthed temples, altars, baths (both large and small), fortifications, formal gateways, commercial shops, tombs, and Christian churches,” Hoff said. “Among the most significant discoveries have been large, fabulous mosaics, the discovery of which was featured in the New York Times.”
The evening will include short visual presentations on the excavations and on the site by Hoff, including demonstrations by excavation staff of Aerial Drone photography and architectural reconstruction models. Guests will be able to virtually explore and experience the ancient structures at the site, including the imperial Temple, through Virtual Reality without leaving the Gallery.
Wine and hors d’oeuvres will be served.
Please R.S.V.P. to Rebecca Salem or phone Hoff at (402) 472-5342 by May 1.
Richards Hall is located at Stadium Drive and T sts. on the UNL city campus. Public parking is available in the Stadium Drive Parking Garage.