In Memory of Prof. Dr. Jürgen Borchhardt

The German Archaeological Institute, Istanbul Department, mourns the death of Prof. Dr. Jürgen Borchhardt (25.2.1936 – 26.7.2021), who passed away at the age of 85. After his referent period from 1966-1970 at the Istanbul Department, he lectured Classical Archaeology for several decades, first in Frankfurt a. M. and then in Vienna. His research on Lycia has had a lasting impact on our image of this cultural landscape. With Jürgen Borchhardt we lose an important scholar and an important mediator between Turkey and German-speaking archaeology.

D-DAI-IST-KB7981, Urheber unbekannt

Our former Second Director Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Radt shared with us the following memories of his former companion Jürgen Borchhardt: 

“My first encounter with him took place in 1969 at the DAI in Istanbul. He was a referent for Classical Archaeology there and was doing research in Lycia, especially recording rock-cut tombs in Myra, later also in Limyra. I greatly admired him and his research accomplishments. He in turn had much collegial appreciation for my work and supported me accordingly. Jürgen Borchhardt was a very sociable person. He loved Turkish dinners with many friends in large company. The raki flowed abundantly. His vociferous stories earned him the nickname “The Lion of Limyra.” He dominated the dinner rounds and everyone admired him. It was the same at the annual excavation symposia in Ankara. His discovery and reconstruction of the Heroon of Limyra ranks among the most impressive pioneering achievements.”

Our sincere condolences go to the family of Jürgen Borchhardt.