INTRODUCTION

Quite unexpected discoveries of considerable importance were made in 2003: fragments of small-scale relief sculpture inscribed in Old Phrygian at the Palace Complex entrance, a stepped monument with an aniconic (featureless representation of a deity) stone stele in the Cappadocia Gate, and excavation of a megaron in the lower area reveal the extent of Phrygian influence. Equally unexpected architectural elements seem more local in character.

A short spring season, made possible by the kindness of Representative Songül Erbay, allowed considerable extension of the resistivity survey, revealing buildings crowded together before the destruction. Conservation of the stone glacis at the Cappadocia Gate and the Palace Complex façade, supervised by Representative Mehmet Katkat, improved the visual impact of these monuments. Dramatic evidence for the ferocity of the fire was found at the Palace Complex where large beams were incorporated into wall faces and huge wooden columns supported a thatched roof. Dating this fire is crucial to understanding the historical setting. Stylistic analysis might favour the mid sixth century, and thus the identification of Kerkenes with Pteria, but unequivocal evidence remains elusive. While the Central Anatolian character of the urban foundation comes increasingly into focus, only further work will fully expose the cultural complexities and the extent of Phrygian influence.

At the expedition base the Depot was fenced and a new well drilled. Further experiments in appropriate village building using traditional and recycled materials have aroused both local and international interest.