Sebaste Ancient City

Uşak’s Sivaslı district is home to the ancient city of Sebaste Antik Kenti, located near the village of Selçikler. This city was founded exactly two thousand years ago, in 20 BC, by order of the Roman Emperor Augustus. The name “Sebaste” means “revered” in Greek and was in fact one of Augustus’s titles. Thus, the city’s name was an act of reverence toward the most powerful ruler of that era.

Sebaste lies 36 kilometers from the center of Uşak, situated in a fertile plain surrounded by productive farmland. In ancient times, this location was ideal for both agriculture and trade. Even today, the ancient city is easily accessible by road.

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During the Roman period, Sebaste was one of the most important cities in Anatolia. So significant was it that it was counted among Rome’s twelve major cities. In Roman times, people lived here, conducted trade, and worshipped in temples.

Centuries later, during the Byzantine period, the city became a bishopric center. Many churches were built here, making it an important center for Christianity.

Excavations at Sebaste have uncovered the remains of two large churches: one known as the “Great Church” and the other as the “Small Church”.

In new excavations conducted in 2024, a particularly remarkable find was made: a mosaic floor! This mosaicfeatures a “braided pattern”. Such mosaics have been found in only six locations across all of Anatolia, making this discovery extremely valuable. The mosaic belonged to the floor of the Great Church and has been dated to the 4th to 7th centuries AD. This demonstrates how advanced Sebaste was in art and craftsmanship during those periods.

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While Sebaste was a powerful city during the Roman period, it retained its importance during the Byzantine era as a religious center. The churches, mosaics, and architectural remains found here offer insights into the beliefs, artistic sensibilities, and daily lives of its past inhabitants.

Today, Sebaste Antik Kentiis protected by the Uşak Governorship and other institutions. Scientists continue to conduct excavation work here. Although some structures are not yet under preservation, archaeologists are working to safeguard this historic city for future generations. Visitors can simultaneously admire the traces of the past and the beauty of nature.