Ancient Cities Near Antalya Travel Guide

Antalya inestled in the dazzling landscapes of Turkey, where the cerulean waves embrace sun-kissed shores, stands wonderfull city—the Mediterranean's radiant gem. While many are drawn to its contemporary allure of upscale resorts and captivating beaches, Antalya holds within its embrace gateways to epochs long past. It serves as a portal to the illustrious civilizations that once flourished upon these lands. Within this narrative, we present a meticulously crafted guide to Antalya's most eminent ancient cities, inviting you on an odyssey that resonates with the whispers of ages gone by. Be you a historian at heart, a fervent traveler, or someone with a penchant for scenic beauty, let's traverse this path together, delving deep into the annals of the ancient realms encircling Antalya.

Ancient Cities of Antalya

The vibrant region around Antalya, often termed the 'Turkish Riviera', is a harmonious blend of nature's splendor and age-old tales. Beyond its lively beaches and spirited ambiance lies a tapestry of ancient sites, each echoing tales of diverse cultures and epochs. As we journey together, we'll uncover the narratives and mysteries that each city safeguards.  

Perge: Whispers of the Pamphylian Past

Journey to Perge, a once-majestic city a stone's throw from contemporary Antalya. As the former epicenter of the Pamphylia region, Perge's ruins tell tales of grandeur from eras gone by. From its striking Hellenistic Gate to the expansive Roman Baths, each relic narrates a chapter of Perge's tale. Founded by the Hittites around 1500 BC, Perge rose to cultural and commercial significance during the classical Greek period and subsequently under Roman rule. Now, its ruins provide an intimate dive into the pages of history, reflecting its strategic importance, cultural evolution, and architectural splendor over the ages.

Aspendos: Roman Grandeur by the Eurymedon River

A mere trek eastward from Antalya brings you to Aspendos. Renowned for its impeccably preserved Roman theater, Aspendos is a living testament to Roman architectural mastery and the rich tapestry of Anatolia's history. Flourishing under Roman patronage, its landmarks, from the theater built by architect Zeno to the intricate Roman Aqueduct, stand as symbols of its ancient prosperity and engineering marvels. Today, the ruins of Aspendos captivate visitors, offering a bridge to a bygone era of architectural and cultural brilliance.

Termessos: An Elevated Relic Amidst the Taurus Peaks

High above the Antalya plains within the embrace of the Taurus Mountains lies Termessos. Established by the Pisidians, this ancient Anatolian city boasts a legacy spanning back to the Late Bronze Age. Its elevated location rendered it a natural fortress, so much so that even Alexander the Great thought twice before laying siege. As one wanders through its ruins, from its Hellenistic-era structures to its intricate water supply systems, one is transported to its golden age, an era of architectural splendor and strategic prominence. Today, amidst the panoramic mountain vistas, Termessos stands both as a reminder of human innovation and as a poignant reflection of history's ebb and flow.

Phaselis: Maritime Majesty of the Lycian Coastline

Enclosed within a mesmerizing pine woodland and edged by the azure embrace of three natural harbors is Phaselis. This former maritime powerhouse, positioned on Turkey’s southern coast, became a pivotal trading hub due to its peninsular advantage.

Established in 700 BC by settlers from Rhodes, Phaselis,witnessed control shifts from Persians to Alexander the Great, flourishing grandly during the Hellenistic age. Under Roman dominion from 160 BC, its harbors were conduits for exotic goods like rose oil. Yet, its star began to wane from the 3rd century AD, owing to piracy and shifting trade dynamics. Today, amidst breathtaking landscapes, Phaselis stands as a testament to its illustrious maritime past, revealing remnants of streets, aqueducts, and theaters.

Olympos: Where History and Nature Converge

Set within a lush valley that cascades into the Mediterranean, Olympos is a harmonious fusion of natural splendor and ancient ruins. Established in the 3rd century BC, this Lycian city thrived on its strategic location and maritime activities, including piracy, which eventually attracted Roman intervention.

The tranquil ruins, nestled among dense forests, breathe tales from a bygone era, seamlessly blending with the breathtaking landscape. One of Olympos's marvels is the Chimaera or Yanartaş, where eternal flames, birthed from natural methane emissions, dance, and play, evoking ancient legends.

Myra: Lycian Legacy Carved in Stone

Perched on Turkey’s southwestern coast, Myra unfolds a historical tapestry rich in narratives and architectural marvels. A crucial node within the Lycian Federation from the 5th century BC, Myra’s prominence is etched in its cliff-side rock tombs and intricately detailed reliefs.

During the Roman epoch, the city retained its stature, unveiling architectural masterpieces like the grand theatre. Myra’s legacy also includes Saint Nicholas, its 4th-century bishop, who inspired the Santa Claus legend. Despite its decline from the 6th century onward, modern-day Myra stands as a poignant reminder of Lycian grandeur, welcoming visitors to traverse its stone-carved narratives.

Side: Where Ancient Grandeur Meets Coastal Elegance

Nestled on a scenic peninsula against the backdrop of the shimmering Mediterranean, the ancient city of Side beckons with its fusion of history and unparalleled beauty. Founded by Greek settlers from Cyme in the 7th century BC, its strategic location made it a nexus of trade and cultural exchanges.

By the 4th century BC, Side's prosperity blossomed, but this wealth also attracted the eyes of pirates. However, a new chapter began under Roman dominion in the 1st century BC. Roman artistry permeated Side's skyline with monumental structures like the vast Roman theatre and the iconic Temple of Apollo.

In its golden era between the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, Side was not only an architectural masterpiece but also a beacon of intellectual pursuits. Yet, as history often dictates, the city faced its decline, largely abandoned by the 10th century.

Today, Side offers a tapestry of history intertwined with modernity. Iconic landmarks, including its theatre and Temple of Apollo, offer windows into a glorious past. A stroll here is akin to walking through the annals of time, making it an essential stop for every history aficionado.

Simena: Echoes of a Majestic Past Along Turquoise Shores

Tucked away on the resplendent coast of Turkey, Simena Ancient City is an archaeological jewel waiting to be explored. Kaleköy's proximity adds a local charm to this historic enclave that boasts both natural splendor and remnants of an illustrious past.

Simena's signature Lycian rock tombs, etched into the soaring cliffs, tell tales of ancient artistry and beliefs. Meander through its ancient alleys, and the amphitheater and medieval castle whisper legends of bygone epochs.

For an unparalleled experience, embark on a boat voyage to gaze upon Simena's underwater ruins. And as the sun casts its golden farewell, the city's relics glow in ethereal beauty, with panoramic vistas from the castle's peak leaving an indelible mark on every visitor.

Patara: Reliving the Glory of a Forgotten Civilization

Patara Ancient City is where the annals of history come alive amidst the tranquility of the Mediterranean landscape. Located close to Gelemiş, this archaeological marvel showcases an enthralling blend of ancient relics set amidst nature's splendor.

The grand amphitheater stands as a testament to Patara's Roman legacy. As you delve deeper, the city unfolds its secrets – from the bustling agora that was the city's heartbeat to the column-lined avenues echoing with tales of yesteryears.

Adjacent to these ancient wonders, the pristine Patara Beach offers both relaxation and a connection to the past, having once served as an ancient port. And for those seeking spiritual enlightenment, the Church of St. Nicholas, dedicated to the saint popularly known as Santa Claus, offers a touch of divinity.

Patara is not just an archaeological site; it's an experience. A place where the whispers of ancient civilizations are cradled by nature's beauty, waiting to be discovered and cherished.

Arycanda: A Majestic Testament in the Taurus Mountains

Perched within the serene Taurus Mountains, Arycanda beckons as an archaeological masterpiece echoing tales of ancient civilizations. This illustrious city, close to the village of Aykiriçay, stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural zenith of its era.

As you traverse the hallowed grounds, you'll witness the astounding engineering and artistic prowess of Arycanda's ancestors. The city's amphitheater, magnificently etched into the mountain's embrace, offers a panoramic spectacle, inviting one to feel the ambiance of ancient performances.

The city's stadium, a monument to its athletic heritage, speaks of a community that revered physical feats and spirited competition. Amidst the ruins, the Roman baths, the grand agora, and the city's advanced aqueducts paint a vivid picture of Arycanda's societal sophistication.

Enveloped by verdant landscapes and overlooking picturesque valleys, Arycanda is more than just an archaeological site; it's an encounter with serenity. Every corner offers a dialogue between nature's beauty and human genius, beckoning travelers to relive the ancient ethos and marvel at a civilization's legacy.