Nora Ancient City Nora is an ancient city situated in Helvadere, a suburb of Aksaray, and lies at the base of the dormant Mt. Hasan, posing no threat to residents or visitors. Despite its historical significance, Nora has not been officially excavated nor established as a museum, leading to limited information about the site. It is believed that the city was initially established as a garrison by the Romans and continued as one for the Byzantines. Its lack of elaborate marble work, water systems, and grand streets indicate its primary purpose as a military installation rather than a residential area. Though the area contains around 1000 structures, there is no indication that it was ever a proper settlement. Nora's layout appears haphazard, and the stonework is rough. While some buildings are thought to date back to the late Roman/early Byzantine period, most of them were constructed in the 7th century AD. The city was abandoned around the 8th century AD.