Aphrodisias Ancient City Launches Archaeology Workshop for Children

The ancient city of Aphrodisias in Turkey’s Aydın province has transformed into an open-air classroom, launching a new children’s workshop designed to connect the next generation with the region’s rich archaeological heritage.

The “Aphrodisias Children’s Workshop” (Afrodisias Çocuk Atölyesi) recently held its first session in the Karacasu district, offering young participants a hands-on introduction to history, art, and archaeology. Coordinated by Ebru Battal, wife of Karacasu District Governor İsmail Battal, the project was developed in collaboration with the local governorate and the Aphrodisias Museum Directorate.

Bringing Ancient History to Life

During the inaugural event, children stepped into the shoes of ancient artisans and modern researchers. Activities included a “Young Archaeologists in the Excavation Area” module, where students conducted mock digs to uncover replica artifacts. The immersive program also featured ancient coin minting, theatrical mask making, and clay modeling, allowing children to experience the craftsmanship that once made Aphrodisias famous across the Roman Empire.

Beyond the crafts, the workshop incorporated an interactive “Orienteering Aphrodite’s Mysteries Treasure Hunt.” This engaging activity guided children through the ancient ruins, turning the sprawling archaeological site into a dynamic learning environment. Live painting performances further enriched the experience, blending historical education with creative expression. By interacting directly with the environment, the young participants gained a deeper understanding of how ancient cities functioned.

A Treasure Hunt Through Antiquity

While international audiences often explore Turkey’s past by watching Kuruluş Osman and other historical series, the country’s physical landscape offers a tangible connection to millennia of human history. Aphrodisias, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly renowned for its exceptionally preserved marble quarries and its ancient school of sculpture. For centuries, this city produced some of the finest marble works of the Roman era, making it the perfect backdrop for an educational art and history initiative.

Future Plans for the Aphrodisias Workshop

Following the success of its first weather-dependent session, organizers plan to establish the children’s workshop as a permanent fixture at the ancient site. The project aims to complete necessary structural arrangements by April 2027, making the educational activities available to all visiting families, tourists, and school groups throughout the spring and summer seasons.

By transforming a traditional museum visit into an interactive experience, the initiative hopes to foster a lifelong appreciation for cultural heritage among young people. The collaborative effort, supported by Museum Director Tenzile Uysal, local education officials, and museum staff, highlights a growing trend in Turkish cultural tourism: making history accessible, engaging, and relevant for the next generation.

Source: SonDakika
Featured image: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0