Ministry Defends Controversial Aspendos Restauration, Defends “White Marble Will Turn Grey In Time”

- The Ministry of Culture and Tourism made a statement defending the recent restauration works in historical Aspendos amphitheatre located in Antalya province that has stirred debates, told “the stones used in restrauration would change its color in time, influenced by the seasonal and natural conditions, then produce patina and transform into the same color as 2,000-year-old stones."

Recent restoration work at the historical amphitheater of Aspendos has sparked outrage among tourists and cultural associations, as white marble has been used on the ancient site’s stairs and seats rather than stones of the original texture and color. The Stones were defined as “kitchen marbles” and were slammed in social media platforms, while Turkish media made wide coverage of the debate.

"Works resumed in respect to Cultural Heritage Conservation Board"

According to the statement of the Ministry, “the works installing the beige colored lime stone was resumed in respect to Antalya Cultural and Natural Heritage Conservation District Board’s decision.”

The ministry added the decision was made in respect to relief, restauration, restitution and static and electric projects, and samples of original stones have been taken to collect stones matching the color.

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