Restoration work continues on the Macedonian Tower, built by Hadrian

The restoration of the historic Macedonian Tower, built by Roman Emperor Hadrian, continues to uncover amazing findings. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism started this excavation project in 2021. It has shown that the tower serves not only as an observation point but also as a rich archaeological site with traces of various civilizations.

The Macedonian Tower is one of the towers located at the four corners of the walls surrounding Hadrianopolis, established by Roman Emperor Hadrian.

In 1866-1867, Hacı İzzet Pasha, one of the governors of Edirne, added wooden floors and installed clocks. As a result, the tower began to be referred to as the Clock Tower. Furthermore, this clock was known for a long time as the “Millet Clock.”

During the excavations, workers discovered remains of a chapel from the 10th century, a Byzantine ceramic kiln, and an Ottoman icehouse. These findings illuminate Edirne’s history and highlight the city’s cultural richness.

As part of the restoration, the team reinforced the tower’s walls and floors using modern techniques. They carefully cleaned the brick, stone, and plaster surfaces, restoring them to their original condition.

Kemal Soytürk, the Director of Edirne Provincial Culture and Tourism, emphasized the importance of the Macedonian Tower for Edirne. He noted that it reflects the city’s historical fabric. Additionally, he pointed out that the tower is located in the golden triangle of Edirne, alongside Selimiye Mosque, Üç Şerefeli Mosque, and the Old Mosque. The goal of the restoration is to bring the tower back to its former glory.

Soytürk also mentioned that visitors will access the tower’s interior via an elevator. Local and foreign tourists can ride a transparent elevator to the terrace. From there, they will see photographs of the cultures and civilizations that founded Edirne. He stated, “This is one of the significant investments by our Ministry of Culture and Tourism.”

Furthermore, Soytürk noted that the facades of buildings in the streets surrounding the tower will undergo renovation. They plan to expropriate unregistered buildings to give the area a square identity.