Archaeologists in Antalya, Turkey, have made a rare discovery: the tomb of Menodora, a Roman benefactress from the 2nd century CE who financed the construction of public buildings and established a children’s aid fund, has been found in the ancient city of Sillyon.
In the ancient city of Sillyon, located in the Serik district of Turkish Antalya, archaeologists discovered the tomb of Menodora—a woman from the 2nd century CE known for her generous contributions to the city’s development and the creation of a fund for children.
The discovery took place on September 26, 2025, during excavations on the city’s main street, where researchers uncovered a group of elite burials. Menodora’s tomb holds a special place among them, as her life and activities left a profound mark on the city’s history.
According to the head of the excavation, Pamukkale University Associate Professor Murat Taşkıran, Menodora was not only one of the wealthiest women in the Mediterranean but also an outstanding patron. She financed the construction of temples, baths, a stadium, educational and sports facilities, and dedicated a significant part of her fortune to the beautification of Sillyon. Archaeologists estimate that Menodora spent about 300,000 denarii on construction and public projects alone—an enormous sum for that time.
A 26-line inscription found near the tomb details her contributions: she held a position comparable to the head of the city council, managed a gymnasium that combined educational and sports functions, and established a foundation to support children.
Murat TaÅŸkıran noted that Menodora’s life was marked by personal tragedies—she lost her father, husband, and son early. Yet, despite this, she dedicated herself to the prosperity of her native city: “Her example shows how the vision and determination of one person can transform an entire city.”
Work to improve the area around the tomb is ongoing so that future visitors can clearly see how the memory of prominent residents of the Roman era was preserved in architectural monuments.
The discovery of Menodora’s tomb is a significant event for studying the history of Sillyon and the history of female patronage in antiquity.
