From ancient metropolis to archaeological treasure trove: Austrian archaeologists have been working in Ephesos since 1895. Now located in Türkiye, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the Mediterranean region – and the largest scientific undertaking of the Republic of Austria abroad. The research is conducted under the direction of the Austrian Archaeological Institute of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW) in close cooperation with Turkish partner institutions.

Over the course of more than 130 years, Austrian research has yielded countless new insights into urban life in antiquity, religious practices, art and architecture. Spectacular discoveries are made time and again – increasingly often using new digital methods that literally allow us to look beneath the surface of the city's history.

Watch the excavations live

To mark the anniversary, the Austrian Broadcasting Company (ORF) and the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW) are bringing the fascinating world of Ephesos to a wide audience across all channels. The aim is to give all viewers and listeners a first-hand experience of the adventure of archaeology and to open up the treasure trove that is Ephesos. The broadcast »Science Arena« on radio Ö1 with Martin Haidinger will kick things off on 30 June, where experts, including excavation director Martin Steskal, will discuss the historical, scientific and political significance of 130 years of Austrian excavations in Ephesos.

Starting on 9 July, a digital window will open directly onto the excavation site: a daily live stream will provide four hours of immediate insights into the current work of the scientists on site at two different excavation locations. The stream will be supplemented by accompanying reports on the TV channel ORF III and in the daily programme of the channel ORF 2.

»Mayrs Magazin – Wissen für alle« (»Mayr's Magazine – Knowledge for Everyone«) will report on new excavation technologies and current research highlights on 4 July (ORF 2, 6:30 pm). And on 10 July, »Dimensionen« on Radio Ö1 will shed light on the major scientific questions surrounding the ancient metropolis of Ephesos. A documentary by Viktoria Tatschl about the 130-year history of research, featuring historical footage, expert interviews and surprising insights into life in the ancient city, will be shown on the TV channel ORF 2 on 12 July at 1:20 pm.

Accompanying this, science.orf.at is publishing an online dossier with background articles and exclusive photographic material from the current excavations.

Comments on the anniversary

Eva-Maria Holzleitner, Federal Minister for Women, Science and Research (BMFWF):

»130 years of research in Ephesos are an impressive testament to Austrian scientific history – and at the same time a living example of international cooperation. This excavation impressively demonstrates how research builds bridges – between the past and the present, between Austria and the world. It is our democratic duty to make this knowledge accessible to all people – regardless of their origin, education or age. Because science belongs at the heart of society.«

Heinz Faßmann, President of the Austrian Academy of Sciences (OeAW):

»The excavation in Ephesos is a flagship project for Austrian research. The dedicated excavation team from the Austrian Academy of Sciences is among the world's best in archaeology. I am delighted that the Austrian Broadcasting Company is breaking new ground in its important role as a knowledge broker and will be reporting live from the excavation.«

Roland Weißmann, Director General of the Austrian Broadcasting Company (ORF):

»Reporting on Austrian scientific achievements has always been one of the cornerstones of ORF programming – especially when it comes to research as significant as that carried out in Ephesos. The ORF has been covering this work since its inception – the first documentary was produced in 1967 under the direction of Helmut Zilk, who later became television director. The ORF is therefore dedicating an impressive package of radio, television and online programmes to this year's anniversary, '130 years of Austrian excavations in Ephesos'.«