Phrygia was once a powerful ancient kingdom located in the west-central part of Anatolia, known today as Turkey. The name Phrygia has disappeared from modern maps, yet its legacy remains deeply embedded in historical, cultural, and archaeological studies. Understanding what Phrygia is called today requires tracing both the geographical transformation and the political boundaries that have changed over centuries. The story of Phrygia, its people, and its modern location helps illuminate a part of ancient history that still fascinates researchers and travelers alike.
Location of Ancient Phrygia
Phrygia occupied a large area in central Anatolia, roughly corresponding to parts of several modern-day Turkish provinces. It stretched across present-day regions such as:
- Afyonkarahisar
- EskiÅehir
- Kütahya
- Ankara
- Denizli (in western extensions)
These regions today form part of the heartland of modern Turkey. The ancient capital of Phrygia was Gordion, which is located near the modern town of Polatlı in Ankara Province. Thus, Phrygia is no longer a distinct political entity but is integrated into the nation of Turkey, with much of its former territory lying within the central Anatolian plateau.
What Is Phrygia Called Today?
In modern terms, Phrygia is not a separate administrative region, but the territory it once covered is now part of central and western Turkey. While there is no direct modern replacement for the name Phrygia, its influence can be seen in regional archaeological sites and cultural landmarks. Cities like Afyonkarahisar and EskiÅehir stand where Phrygian cities and settlements once thrived. Therefore, when people ask, ‘What is Phrygia called today?’ the accurate answer would be central-western Turkey, particularly the provinces listed above.
Gordion and Its Modern Identity
The ancient city of Gordion, once a major center of Phrygian civilization, is now a key archaeological site located near Yassıhöyük, a village in Ankara Province. The area is protected and recognized for its historical value. Modern Turkish scholars and international archaeologists have excavated the site, uncovering artifacts that provide insight into the Phrygian way of life. The tumuli (burial mounds) at Gordion, including what is believed to be the tomb of King Midas, are major attractions that connect present-day Turkey with its Phrygian past.
Historical Overview of Phrygia
To understand the modern relevance of Phrygia, it’s important to consider its historical significance. Phrygia emerged as a dominant kingdom after the decline of the Hittite Empire around 1200 BCE. The Phrygians are believed to have migrated from the Balkans into Anatolia. They established themselves as a cultural and political force and developed a distinct language and artistic style.
Phrygian Kings and Legacy
One of the most famous kings of Phrygia was Midas, a ruler immortalized in Greek mythology for his ‘golden touch.’ While the mythical stories may be embellished, archaeological evidence suggests a wealthy and influential monarchy ruled Phrygia during the 8th and 7th centuries BCE. The Phrygian kingdom was known for its skill in metalwork, textiles, and unique religious practices. Their culture influenced neighboring regions, and even after the kingdom’s decline, the Phrygian identity continued to impact Anatolian culture.
Fall and Absorption of Phrygia
Phrygia’s independence ended when it was invaded by the Cimmerians in the 7th century BCE. Over time, it was absorbed by the Lydian and then the Persian empires. Later, the area became part of the territories controlled by Alexander the Great, followed by Roman and Byzantine rule. During these centuries, the name Phrygia continued to be used for ecclesiastical and administrative regions, particularly during the Roman period when it was divided into Phrygia Prima and Phrygia Secunda. Eventually, with the rise of the Seljuk Turks and the formation of the Ottoman Empire, the name fell into disuse and was replaced by newer administrative divisions.
Modern-Day Influence and Remnants
Although the name Phrygia is no longer in everyday use, its influence is still visible today in several ways:
- Archaeological sites like Gordion and Midas City (Yazılıkaya) preserve Phrygian architecture and inscriptions.
- Artifacts in Turkish museums, such as the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations in Ankara, showcase Phrygian craftsmanship.
- The cultural memory of Phrygia endures in academic study and popular mythology.
Phrygia and the Cultural Landscape of Turkey
Turkey, as a modern nation, contains within its borders the heritage of many ancient civilizations, including the Hittites, Lydians, Greeks, Romans, and of course, the Phrygians. The areas that were once part of Phrygia now thrive as urban and rural centers in central Turkey. Local traditions, place names, and festivals occasionally echo the region’s rich past. For example, regional stone monuments and religious symbols sometimes display elements rooted in Phrygian tradition, though adapted over time.
Tourism and Phrygian Heritage
Tourism plays a role in keeping the memory of Phrygia alive. Travelers to Turkey who are interested in history often visit the ancient Phrygian Valley in Afyonkarahisar, where rock-cut tombs and temples reflect Phrygian architectural ingenuity. These sites are less crowded than the more famous tourist destinations, making them ideal for those interested in a deep historical experience. As interest in cultural tourism grows, Turkey continues to highlight its Phrygian heritage as part of its diverse historical narrative.
So, what is Phrygia called today? The answer lies not in a single modern name, but in a geographical transformation over millennia. The land of the Phrygians is now part of central and western Turkey, incorporated into various provinces that carry forward the legacy through archaeological sites, cultural memory, and continued academic exploration. Though the name Phrygia has vanished from modern maps, it survives in the stones, stories, and soil of the region, offering a link between ancient civilization and modern identity. The historical importance of Phrygia remains undeniable, and its legacy continues to enrich our understanding of ancient Anatolia and the development of civilizations in the region.