Konya Metropolitan Municipality Mayor Uğur İbrahim Altay and Meram Municipality Mayor Mustafa Kavuş inspected the ongoing work at the archaeological park area as part of the Şükran Neighborhood Urban Transformation Project.
Mayor Altay stated that they are carrying out work at 20 different locations in Konya as part of the Dârülmük Project, saying, "Some of these have been completed, some are in the project phase, and construction work is ongoing at others."
Mayor Altay said, "This area was transferred to the ownership of our Metropolitan Municipality because archaeological remains were discovered during preliminary studies. The area is being transformed into an archaeological park through ongoing efforts. The artifacts found here are of great significance for Konya. The discovery of mosaic pieces from the fifth century is particularly important for the historical context of the city center. Additionally, the team is working intensively to uncover the Roman Road and other artifacts. Once completed, we are creating another area within the city walls that will be transformed into an archaeological site and opened up to tourism."
Meram Municipality Mayor Mustafa Kavuş noted that work has continued tirelessly with the support provided by the Metropolitan Municipality, stating, "The area will be revitalized and colorful again, echoing its former commercial vibrancy. Moreover, all visitors coming here will be able to see remnants and examples of all civilizations that have passed through Konya—ranging from Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods—in this 16,000-square-meter area in the heart of the city, known as the 'Sur İçi' region."
The archaeological park works within the Şükran Neighborhood Urban Transformation Project, conducted over approximately 16,000 square meters, began with surface scans using georadar (ground-penetrating radar). Once excavations and work in three different areas are completed, this space will serve as an open-air museum, contributing to the city’s history, tourism, and social life.
Artifacts discovered during the excavations, which shed light on Konya's history and culture, will be displayed in the archaeological park in the best possible manner, enhancing the city's contribution to human history.