Remains of Seljuk palace emerge as waters recede
Structural remains surrounding the Kubadabad Palace, built by Anatolian Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin Keykubad on the shores of Lake Beyşehir, have become visible in recent years due to receding water levels.
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Excavations have been ongoing since 1980 at the ruins of Kubadabad Palace, which was built in 1236 by the order of Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin Keykubad I, right next to Lake Beyşehir and at the foothills of the Anamas Mountains.
New discoveries in each season continue to spark excitement in the excavations, where dazzling and rare tile artifacts that adorn museums have been unearthed.
Due to drought and climate change, the lake's waters occasionally recede, allowing some of the palace's structures to be identified through underwater surveys.
Kubadabad Palace Complex Excavation Head Assoc. Prof. Muharrem Çeken stated that the excavation is continuing in the 75th year since the discovery of the Seljuk palace.
"Water has also been drawn off through channels. Lack of precipitation and drought are also causing this. For that reason, especially under the shallow waters of the lake, aerial photographs provide an opportunity for discovery when the water is clear. We have identified structures through these photographs. Our expectations for the underwater studies are high.
Many structural remains are encountered in the strip extending from Kubadabad Palace towards the north, towards the peninsula we call 'Mındıras Island.' With the recession of the lake in recent years, we have been able to see them. By identifying these, we naturally want to contribute them to our cultural history."