Aphrodisias Turkey

5800 BCE
First signs of occupation at the site later known as Aphrodisias.
150 BCE
A fertility shrine in southwest Turkey is known as "Aphrodisias" by this time, indicating its dedication to the Greek goddess Aphrodite. The cult of Aphrodite at Aphrodisias is distinctive, reflecting the goddess' ancient origins and commonalities with ot
85 BCE
After defeating Mithridates VI, king of Pontus, the Roman dictator Sulla sends gifts to Aphrodisias to reward its unwavering loyalty to the the Romans during the conflict. The shrine city begins to prosper.
40 BCE
Aphrodisias is sacked by the Parthians.
39 BCE
Octavian (later known as Augustus) grants Aphrodisias the privileges of autonomy and tax-free status, declaring it to be "the one city from all of Asia that I have selected to be my own."
50 CE
Construction of the Temple of Aphrodite
1961
Archaeological excavations begin at Aphrodisias, which gradually reveal a theater, odeon, basilica, market, houses, baths, monumental gateway, and sanctuary for worship of the Roman emperor.