Exploring Antalya’s Rich History: A Must-See Guide to Antalya's Best Historical Sites
Antalya, often known for its stunning beaches, is also home to some of Türkiye's most remarkable historical sites. These ancient landmarks tell the story of Antalya's rich past, from its Roman and Byzantine heritage to its Ottoman influences. Here's a guide to the best historical sites to visit in Antalya👇
Perge Ancient City
Perge Ancient City, situated in Antalya's Aksu district, is referred to as 'Parha' in ancient Hittite texts. Archaeological excavations, which began in 1946, have uncovered its historical significance. The city thrived during the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine eras, and notable landmarks include its theater, baths, colonnaded street, the Kestros fountain, agora, water channel, and the Nymphaion pool.
The Ancient City of Aspendos and Theater
The Ancient City of Aspendos has been inhabited since the 10th century and has served as home to a variety of civilizations, each with its unique characteristics. Today, it stands as one of Antalya's iconic landmarks. The Theater and Aqueducts of Aspendos, which have been preserved through restorations by different states, are part of UNESCO’s Tentative Heritage List as of 2015.
The Aspendos Theater, renowned for its excellent acoustics, is a must-see attraction in Belek, offering visitors a stunning visual experience with its grand architecture and large seating capacity.
The Ancient City of Sillyon
The Ancient City of Sillyon stands out for its unique location atop a hill. While there isn’t much detailed information about the structures within the city, ongoing research is expected to shed light on its history. It is believed that Sillyon dates back to around 3000 BC and was possibly established during the time of the Trojan War.
The Aspendos Bridge
The Aspendos Bridge, originally constructed during the Roman era, spans the Köprüçay River. Also known as the 'Old Bridge,' it was damaged by earthquakes in the 13th century but was later reconstructed by the Seljuks on its original foundations. The bridge, rebuilt between 1219 and 1236, stretches 225 meters in length and is now closed to vehicle traffic. It can be easily viewed from the nearby Aspendos Ancient City.
Kaleiçi
Antalya, founded by King Attalos II of Pergamon in 150 BCE, is home to several ancient landmarks primarily from its Roman period. The most notable is Hadrian’s Gate, a triple-arched entrance to Kaleiçi, the city's old town. Kaleiçi’s architecture is mainly Ottoman, but its surrounding walls date back to Roman times. The Korkut Mosque, originally a Roman temple, underwent various transformations into a Byzantine church, a Seljuk mosque, and finally an Ottoman mosque. Also in the old city is the Hıdırlık Tower, an ancient fortification overlooking the harbor.
Termessos
For adventurous travelers, Termessos is an ideal day trip. Located less than 30 minutes from Antalya’s center, this ancient city sits atop a mountain. Even Alexander the Great couldn’t conquer it, but with sturdy hiking boots, you can navigate the rugged landscape and enjoy the breathtaking view of a theater carved into the mountainside.
Phaselis
Phaselis, once a Roman port city, is located along three connected bays. Today, visitors can explore ancient ruins like the aqueduct, theater, and remnants of the city, all within a serene national park. The isolation of this spot ensures it's peaceful and well-preserved. Be sure to bring your own lunch, as there are no cafés or restaurants along this beach.
Olympos and Çıralı
Olympos and Çıralı, located next to each other, offer a balance between less touristy spots like Phaselis and more services for visitors. Olympos, dating back to the Hellenistic period, features ruins of a theater, Roman bathhouse, Byzantine church, and a necropolis with over 200 tombs. Just three kilometers from Çıralı lies the Chimaera, or Eternal Flame, where methane vents on a hillside emit spontaneous flames once used by sailors for navigation and now mainly for brewing tea. Both locations are popular for day or weekend trips.
Xanthos and Letoon
Located further from Antalya but worth a day trip, Xanthos and Letoon are two ancient Lycian cities that are UNESCO World Heritage sites. Xanthos was the capital of Lycia, and its ruins include the Xanthian Obelisk, Harpy Tomb, and Lycian acropolis. Nearby Letoon was the religious center of Lycia, dedicated to the goddess Leto and her children, Artemis and Apollo. The temples and ruins here offer a glimpse into the region’s religious past.
Antalya Museum
To gain deeper insight into Antalya’s history, a visit to the Antalya Museum is essential. This award-winning museum houses a vast collection of artifacts from the surrounding region, including statues, sarcophagi, and ancient relics from Perge, Aspendos, and other archaeological sites. The museum’s exhibits span from the Stone Age to the Ottoman period.
Tips for visiting historical sites in Antalya
Best Time to Visit: The spring and autumn months offer the most pleasant weather for exploring Antalya’s historical sites, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
Comfortable Footwear: Many of these ancient sites require walking on uneven ground, so comfortable shoes are a must.
Guided Tours: Some of the more significant sites, like Aspendos and Perge, offer guided tours, which can enhance your understanding of the history and context of the ruins.
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