Burak Gezen / Çanakkale, July 2 () - Restoration at the ancient Temple of Apollon Smintheus, located in the northwestern province of Çanakkale’s Ayvacık district, is expected to be completed this summer.

The sacred area was being plundered since the 18th century, and excavation and restoration works were being carried out since 1980 by a team of 30 people headed by Professor Coşkun Özgünel, with the support of Ministry of Culture and Tourism,
Directorate General of Cultural Assets and Museums.

The excavation team plans to complete their work by locating on top of the columns, the column headings, architrave, friezes and pediments that they have already unearthed. Thus, the southern entrance of the temple will be restored to its original appearance by the end of this summer.

(Photo)