The Midas Monument, also known as the Midas City, is a significant historical site located in modern-day Turkey. This ancient site, believed to have been inhabited since the 8th century BC, is named after the legendary King Midas of Phrygia. The monument is most famous for its large, carved façade, often referred to as the “Midas Monument” or “Midas Tomb,” despite there being no evidence that Midas was buried there. The monument is a testament to the Phrygian civilization’s architectural prowess and is a valuable source of information about their culture and mythology.
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What is the story or legend associated with the Midas Monument?
The Midas Monument is steeped in legend and myth, primarily associated with King Midas, the ruler of Phrygia. King Midas is a prominent figure in Greek mythology, known for his ability to turn everything he touched into gold, often referred to as the “Midas Touch.” The monument is believed to have been a religious site dedicated to the Phrygian Mother Goddess, Cybele.
According to one legend, the monument was built by Midas in a bid to appease the goddess after he was granted a wish which turned into a curse. His wish to turn everything he touched into gold backfired when he was unable to eat or drink as his food and wine also turned to gold. Desperate, he appealed to the goddess, who agreed to reverse the curse on the condition that he would honor her with a monument.
Despite its association with King Midas, there is no concrete evidence to suggest that he was buried there. However, the monument’s size and grandeur, coupled with the rich mythology surrounding Midas, have led to its popular association with the legendary king.
The monument’s façade is adorned with a large, carved relief of a lion, a symbol often associated with Cybele. This has led some historians to believe that the monument was not just a dedication to the goddess, but also a site for her worship.
Today, the Midas Monument stands as a testament to the ancient Phrygian civilization’s architectural prowess and their religious beliefs. It continues to fascinate historians and tourists alike with its grandeur and the rich mythology surrounding it.
Conclusion and Sources
In conclusion, the Midas Monument is a significant historical site that offers a glimpse into the Phrygian civilization’s culture and mythology. Despite its association with King Midas, it is more likely that the monument was a religious site dedicated to the Mother Goddess, Cybele. Regardless of its true purpose, the monument stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the ancient Phrygians and continues to captivate people with its grandeur and the legends surrounding it.
For further reading and research, the following sources provide comprehensive information on the Midas Monument:
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