A unique exposition “Sagalossos, city of dreams” is open to visitors since October 29 until June 17; it leads us into a very well-preserved archeological site that was discovered in the depth of Turkey.
Who could ever thought that would be possible to go back to an ancient civilization such as the Roman or the Greek? Thanks to the Gallo-Roman museum in Tongeren its possible. This exposition is prepared by opera director Guy Joosten, and this makes it so special and unusual and it will be really difficult to find such an atmosphere anywhere else.
History of Sagalassos
There were a few significant historical periods in Sagalassos history. The most prosperous time was when it became a part of Roman Empire. Emperor Augustus was the one who turned this place into a very progressive and a well-to-do city. In the exhibition you can find two huge statues of roman emperors Marco Aurelius and Hadrian. They continued the of Augustus and they made Sagalassos even more strong and significant city. They where worship by the citizens a lot and that’s by we find this magnificient statues.
After the Roman Empire collapsed, in the VII century two earthquakes devastated the city and was cover it with sand until its ruins were discovered in 18th century.
Now we have the great opportunity to learn from due to the work of Mark Waelkens, a proffessor of archeaeology at the Katolieke Universiteit in Leuven.
The play of light
The exhibition is divided in two parts. The first one you can get familiar with the historical periods of Sagalassos by following admiral objects that are exposed in a chronological order. Also you can find a model of the city that gives you an idea of how it looked like.
Interactive panels helps to orientate you among the exhibits. You never loose your way admiring the antique coins, pottery and jewelry.
The second part of the exhibition is visually more impressive; the director uses the light and music to show the antiques from a new angle. For example, the room with the fragments of the emperor Hadian´s statue leaves a very strong impression. After an absolute darkness you get to a room full of bright light that changes gradually. This effect helps the director to convey the power and majesty of this emperor.
Without a doubt this is an enriching experience that everyone should live, and certainly will never forget.
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