Ancient City of Şar Komana
The Ancient City of Şar Komana is the capital of Kizzuvatna. Kizzuvatna (Adanya), the first known political structure in Cilicia. It is a religious kingdom that came under the rule of the Hittite kingdom in 1400 BC but was independent in its internal affairs. Komana was a city that was considered sacred at that time and was ruled by a priest. The people of the city, which dates back to the 2nd millennium BC, consisted of Luwians and Hurrians. Just like Adana, the name Komana is a derived name from Hurricane.
The city is ruled by a priest who is also highly respected by the Hittite King. So much so that the king usually marries the priest's daughters to get this religious power behind him. Queen Puduhepa, whose seal was signed in Kadesh agreement signed between the Hittites and the Egyptians, is also from Komana.
The famous writer of the ancient period Strabo of Amasya (6 BC 24 AD) talks about two important belief centers in Anatolia. The first of these is the Ancient City of Şar, known as the Cappadocia Komana, and the other is the Pontus Komana located in the borders of Tokat.
At that time, the mother goddess, generally called Ma, was worshiped in Anatolia. The equivalent of Ma in Greek Mythology is Enyo, and the Roman equivalent of Bellona is the war goddesses.
The holy city during the priests' period was known as Komana. After they lost their power and city got rid of its religious character but still remained an important city. At that period city was known as Hieropolis. A large part of the ancient city has remained under the village settlement today.
Broken Church (Kırık Kilise)
The most intact structure that has survived from the ancient city of Şar is the Broken Church. During the archaeological excavations, it was understood from the inscription found in the western part of the building that this place was the tomb of the Roman Senator Hermodorus.
The church made of cut stone is located on the grave. There is an entrance door and 3 windows in the front of the rectangular planned structure. It has been determined that the church was built in 311 AD.
Alakapi
Another important structure that has survived from the ancient city of Şar is the 6 meters high and 3 meters wide ornamented door, which is understood to be the entrance of a temple. Since the temple submerged under garden, there is no trace of it other than the door. Byzantine workmanship is seen on the door and this shows that this structure was also used in the Christian period. The reliefs on the door made of marble are striking.
Where is Shar Komana Ancient City? Directions Information. How to Get to the Ancient City?
The ancient city of Sar Komana is located in the Tufanbeyli District of Adana, within the borders of the Sar district. It is 15 km from Tufanbeyli and 196 km from Adana.
To reach the ancient city of Sar from Adana by private car, you must use the Kozan road to reach the Tufanbeyli district center by passing the districts of Kozan, Feke, Saimbeyli. Here, you can reach the Şar district with the guidance of the signs.
It is not possible to reach the ancient city of Shar Komana by public transport. After reaching Tufanbeyli District by minibuses departing from Yüreğir bus station, it is necessary to find a private vehicle to reach Şar district.
The entrance to the ancient city of Şar Komana is free.
Places to be visited around Şar Komana Ancient City
Obruk Waterfall: 51, 9 km
Saimbeyli Castle: 53,6 km
