In my travels throughout the biblical world, a few sites have struck me as particularly promising for archaeological excavation. If bulldozers could remove the modern city of Alexandria (Egypt), I’d guess the entire Roman city would be well preserved beneath. Next on my list would be Antakya (Turkey), which is built over Antioch on the Orontes. One of the most impressive sites that doesn’t require relocating a city is Laodicea (Turkey). Excavations began in 2000 and applications are now being accepted for the summer of 2008. Laodicea contains monumental remains just under the surface, and it surely would be an exciting experience. For more information, see http://cognitivearchaeology.spaces.live.com 
Recent excavations of Laodicea
5 thoughts on “Dig Ancient Laodicea”
Todd, I have to agree with you. I was first at Laodicea in 2000 and there was nothing exposed except the bare ruins of a hillside theater. The tel is huge.
I was back in 2005 and a large section of the hilltop cardo had been exposed by an Italian team. It was amazing and shows what treasures lie just beneath the surface.
It is hot in the summer!
http://webpages.charter.net/sandalow/Laodecia-Cardo-1-ED.jpg
http://webpages.charter.net/sandalow/Laodecia-Cardo-with-Pamukka.jpg
Wow, I had assumed more work had been done at Laodicea. It was a quite important city for a long time.
I’d have to agree, Alexandria would be awesome. Wish we could find their library.
I was at Colossae last year. That’s never been excavated as far as I know. There’s not even any explanatory signs. Even given the fact that Turkey has some 21,000 ancient sites, the lack of work at such famous sites is quite surprising.
Great Stuff! I’m preaching on the 7 churches right now and stubled accross your site!
Do you have any more pics that you’re willing to share? I’d love to get some!
pastor.allan (at) gmail.com