This unique guidebook provides the precise GPS coordinates and descriptive information needed to visit more than sixty ancient sites in western Turkey. This information enables visitors using a GPS to easily drive on their own to these sites, many of which are located in remote rural areas without signage. Chapters are based on ancient regions in western Asia Minor, beginning with the Troad (including Troy) in the northwest, proceeding south through Mysia, Aeolia, Ionia, and Caria along the Aegean coast, then east along the Mediterranean coast to Lycia and Pamphylia, and finally north through Pisidia, Lydia, Phrygia, and Bithynia to Istanbul (Constantinople), where several ancient structures from before they year 800 are identified. Although the order of the chapters is primarily geographic, the flow of information is also generally chronological, in that older sites associated with classic polytheism tend to come first, and the early Christian sites appear later in the text. Students of ancient history or religion can use this guidebook, together with free Google Earth software, to virtually explore these sites and see the main buildings without even leaving home. Hundreds of pictures and maps are included to identify specific buildings and their functions, and to facilitate site visits. Large and extensive ruins at Ephesus and Pergamum are covered in depth. The book includes concise descriptions and stories about the classical gods, religious leaders and relevant historical figures needed to understand these ancient sites and their significance. Three different fonts are used to distinguish historical references and mythological stories from the main text. Gods and individuals covered in depth are noted with a dashed underline, which indicates their stories can be easily found using the comprehensive index. This guidebook also refers to the particular archeologists, universities and museums responsible for site excavations and includes their respective websites whenever possible. As a result, visitors, students, or other interested parties can easily identify key individuals and institutions associated with particular sites and obtain even more in-depth information. The book also contains a comprehensive bibliography.
About the Author: Jack Tucker is a former diplomat who has worked and traveled for many years in the Middle East and Central Asia. He currently lives in Maryland.