Ephesus excavations canceled

Diplomatic tension between Austria and Turkey has brought about an early halt to this year’s archaeological excavations in the ancient city of Ephesus, which are carried out by the Austrian Archaeology Institute, Hurriyet Daily News reported.

With a statement by the Turkish Foreign Ministry, the excavations were cancelled two months before scheduled. 

It was reported that the excavation house used by the Austrian team might be sealed according to the instructions of the ministry.

The course of diplomatic tension between the two countries will determine whether the Austrian excavation team will be given permission for the next year’s works in the ancient city.