During the construction of the Northern Aegean Highway connecting Izmir to Menemen, Aliaga, and Candarli, a unique preservation project was undertaken at the ancient site of Neonteikhos, a once thriving town on the Menemen Plain. Supported by the Izmir Archaeology Museum and the Izmir 2nd Cultural Heritage Preservation Board, rescue excavations were conducted that involved the meticulous documentation and temporary removal of each stone that formed part of Neonteikhos’s ancient road. The excavations generated significant excitement in the archaeology community, with nearly 1,000 cultural artifacts unearthed in the process being transferred to the Izmir Museum. Following the excavations, construction of the modern highway was completed, and the stones of the ancient road were returned to their original positions, with technical specifications that involved precision accuracy and ancient mortar. The new structure not only makes it possible for visitors to walk along the 2500-year-old ancient road to the city’s acropolis, it also serves as a natural bridge, allowing countless wild animals to traverse between the hills and the Menemen Plain. This fascinating documentary highlights how economic development and cultural heritage preservation can coexist through collaborative efforts and innovative methods on the part of surveyors and archaeologists.

Alkım Ün
Alkım Ün graduated from the Middle East Technical University Department of Biology Education in 2002. In 2008, he founded Alkım Medya, a boutique film production company specializing in environmental and educational issues, social responsibility projects, and megaconstruction in Turkey. The company, whose notable productions include the documentary series In the Footsteps of Water, which was broadcast on TRT-Documentary; Neonteikhos; Osman Gazi Bridge; and Wetlands; takes pride in supporting NGOs working on the conservation of nature and biodiversity in Turkey. In addition to appearing on national and international television platforms, Alkım Medya’s productions have won numerous awards at film festivals.