Emre Baylan / Antalya, Feb 23 () - A marble-quarry has destroyed the cedar forest in Antalya’s renowned highland covered with peonies, a flower that is also international EXPO Antalya event’s symbol.

The marble-quarry has been operating with the permission of the state since last year in Ekizce Highland, a natural land situated 45 kilometers to Antalya. The area is home to the EXPO event’s symbol flower, peony.

Archeologist Ümit Işın, General Manager of an agency holding archeology tours photographed the destruction caused by the marble-quarry, while comparing pictures with the natural highland’s former images.

Locals, nature lovers and activists have been protesting the efforts for opening a marble-quarry in the region; however, cedar trees have been cut off.

“We have heard that a motion for stay of execution was made by the court. However in one year a huge green area has been destroyed. We assume that these works will not be halted, as power lines were run in the region” said Işın.

(Photo)