Tralleis Ancient City to Host the International Mythology Film Festival
Aydın, Turkey – For the first time in its 3,000-year history, the Tralleis Ancient City in Aydın’s Efeler district will become the stage for an international cultural event. On September 25, 2025, the historic site will host part of the III. International Mythology Film Festival, an event that brings together film, music, literature, and mythology in a unique setting where ancient ruins meet modern art.
Tralleis: A City with Deep Historical Roots
Founded by Thracians and Argives, Tralleis is known in historical sources as the birthplace of the first written musical notes. The city’s archaeological remains – including its Roman bath complex, gymnasium, and ancient theater – have long fascinated historians and travelers. For decades, excavations have uncovered layers of history, making the site one of western Anatolia’s cultural gems.
Now, the ancient city will not only serve as an archaeological treasure but also as a living cultural venue, where international artists and scholars come together under the theme of mythology.
Festival Program: Films, Music, and Discussions
According to organizers, the Aydın leg of the festival will begin in Efeler city center at the Nevzat Biçer Conference Hall. The program will feature:
- 10:30 AM – Film Screening for Children: Earwig’s Song
- 2:30 PM – Film Screening: HisTroy, a modern cinematic interpretation of the legend of Troy
Later in the day, the program will shift to the ancient ruins of Tralleis:
- 5:30 PM – YoJuliet Concert: The Swedish duo, consisting of Julia Sandwall (strings, piano) and Yohanna Eek Björnulfson (vocals, percussion), will perform a repertoire inspired by mythology and literature.
- 6:30 PM – Panel Discussion: “The Shared Story of Humanity”, moderated by Prof. Dr. Murat Çekilmez, featuring Prof. Dr. Pınar Fedakar, Prof. Dr. Aynur Civelek, and festival director Gülşah Elikbank.
Additionally, author and journalist Özlem Ertan will present a special session on Hittite Myths, bringing Anatolia’s oldest narratives to life for the audience.
A Free Cultural Experience for All
One of the highlights of the festival is that all screenings, panels, and concerts are free and open to the public, making it accessible to both locals and visitors. For the people of Aydın, this marks the first time an international-level cultural festival is hosted in Tralleis, allowing the community to experience their heritage in an engaging and interactive way.
A Festival Across Historical Landscapes
The III. International Mythology Film Festival, directed by Gülşah Elikbank, spans multiple cities and historical landmarks in Turkey:
- September 22–24: İzmir
- September 25: Aydın (Tralleis Ancient City & Efeler)
- September 26: Manisa
- September 27–28: İstanbul (Beyoğlu Cinema & Rami Library)
- September 29–30: Çanakkale (Troy Ancient City)
The festival features short film competitions, digital game contests, international film screenings, panels, workshops, and award ceremonies. Prestigious awards such as the “Ülgen Award” (for contributions to cinema) and the “Mergen Award” (for academic works enriching cultural heritage) will also be presented.
Bridging Mythology, Culture, and Heritage
By hosting part of this festival, Tralleis Ancient City becomes a symbolic bridge between the ancient world and contemporary art. The setting of a concert amid Roman ruins, discussions on mythology, and film screenings inspired by epic tales reflect the power of cultural heritage to remain relevant across millennia.
For more information and the full program, visitors can check the official website: www.mitolojifest.com
