Traces of ancient life at Hatay Archaeology Museum

Now in its new location, 40 percent of the Hatay Archaeology Museum is open to visitors, displaying thousands of artifacts dating back to the Stone Age. When the second stage is finished next year, it will have the largest mosaic display areaThe Hatay Archaeology Museum, which opened in its new location nearly a year ago, takes its visitors on a journey with its interesting atmosphere and avant-garde technological systems.   

One of the world's largest museums, the Hatay Archaeology Museum is home to a total of 36,858 artworks, including 18,818 archaeological pieces, 989 ethnographical pieces, 15,044 coins, 1,509 seals, 423 tablets, two archive documents and 73 codices. 

On a land of 56,000 square meters on the Antakya-Reyhanl? highway in southern Hatay province, the museum itself covers an area of 33,000 square meters. The museum's first stage is currently open to guests, while the second stage is still under construction. 

The museum's display area follows a chronological order. Mythological events begin with a display of the Üça??zl? Inn before the Christian era features scenes from daily and natural life. 

Home to artifacts ranging from the Stone Age to present time, the museum also has interactive presentations. The entrance hall of the museum displays 3D presentations and summarizes the archaeology of Hatay, which has been home to many civilizations throughout history. 

Hatay Archaeology Museum Director Nilüfer Sezgin said the museum has hosted many locals and visitors from neighboring cities in its new location, adding they had received a very positive reaction from visitors. 

"There has been continuous life in Hatay starting from the Paleolithic era to the present day. We try to display the...