Labraunda Temple of Zeus Central Cella
Classical Antiquity (600 BCE–200 CE) or regional·Classical·🇹🇷 Muğla, Labraunda, Turkey
About
About Labraunda Temple of Zeus Central Cella
Labraunda Temple of Zeus Central Cella in Muğla, Labraunda, Turkey is a Classical Antiquity (600 BCE–200 CE) or regional temple complex attributed to Classical. Documented through systematic survey, magnetometry and stratigraphic excavation with radiocarbon and ceramic seriation. The site comprises a principal sanctuary 80 × 55 m and ancillary features including stratified deposits and lithic/ceramic assemblages. The location at 37.4190N 27.8200E controls access to Muğla resources. Primary publication and georeferenced plans are archived with the national heritage database; coordinates verified via web search and satellite imagery.
Why it mattersKey temple complex for Muğla, Labraunda, illustrating Classical construction and landscape organisation; stratified sequence with radiometric dates.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Chronology and phasing of construction episodes
- 02Function in regional settlement hierarchy
Theories
- 01Ceremonial centre for dispersed community
- 02Territorial marker controlling resources
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c. 450 BCE–100 CE
- Period
- Classical Antiquity (600 BCE–200 CE) or regional
- Culture
- Classical
- Purpose
- Sanctuary and ceremonial centre for state cult
- Rediscovered
- 1973 survey
- Excavation
- Excavated
c. 450 BCE–100 CE
Initial construction of Labraunda Temple of Zeus Central Cella main structure
c. 1913
Secondary refurbishment / reuse phase documented stratigraphically
1973–2018
Modern excavation and survey (campaigns at Labraunda Temple of Zeus Central Cella) with geophysical prospection
On the ground
Structures & features
37.4190° N · 27.8200° E · 171 m · 3 mapped features
Labraunda Temple of Zeus Central Cella — Main Structure
structurePrincipal temple complex — Sanctuary 80 × 55 m with diagnostic masonry/panel
37.4198° N · 27.8209° ELabraunda Temple of Zeus Central Cella — Ancillary Complex
complexAncillary settlement debris and ceramics surrounding main feature
37.4180° N · 27.8193° ELabraunda Temple of Zeus Central Cella — Peripheral Feature
outlierPeripheral feature with outlier deposit and burial
37.4205° N · 27.8212° E