The concept and practice of urban archaeology has appeared in Turkey very recently, in the last decade. The 1980s witnessed the wholesale destruction of ancient buildings and archaeological strata in urban areas. Increasing rates of urbanization and the tourism sector spoiled historical and natural environments and led to more comprehensive and effective legislation which was realized first in 1973, then in 1983 and amended in 1987, along with the institutional framework for preservation of historical sites and monuments{3}. By the 30.11.1993 dated and 338 numbered decision of Higher Commission for the Protection of Cultural and Natural Resources, Urban Archaeological Sites defined in legal terms. Although, this decision redefined basically in 05.11.1999 by 658 numbered decision of  Higher Commission for the Protection of Cultural and Natural Resources, urban archaeological heritage and planning process in multi-layered city centres is still problem areas in urban agenda. If we try to summarize recent condition briefly,  because of lack of legal, administrative and financial supports, inadequate urban archaeological database and inefficient planning tools; such development operations like subways, rehabilitation project for historical centres, parking lots, etc. threaten the discovery and protection of archaeological heritage. In addition, the lack of relation between urban planners, archaeologists and architects, the problems start in the earliest stages of urban archaeological studies and planning process.
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