Antalya Ancient Cities (7 Most Impressive Ancient Cities)
Antalya ancient cities are significant regions that you must see. Antalya and its surroundings were inhabited continuously from the Paleolithic period to the Ottoman period.
The present province of Antalya includes three parts called Lycia, Pamphylia, and Pisidia ancient times and only about 100 different settlements. We list the most beautiful Antalya ancient cities that you can visit in modern times for you.
Antalya Ancient Cities: Ancient City of Olympos
When we say Antalya ancient cities, this is the first place that comes to mind. Olympos Ancient City is located on the western slope of the Taurus Mountains, at an altitude of 2375 meters, on the Tahtali Mountain.
This ancient city, which carries the remains and traces of the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods, is also a city of sailors. At the same time, there is an entrance gate at the entrance of the ancient city at a height of 10 meters.
Phaselis Ancient City
Among the Antalya ancient cities, the ancient city of Phaselis has a significant place. Phaselis, a port city dating back to 693, was founded in a small area by the Rhodesians. Phaselis, under the rule of Persia and Alexander for a while, gained its independence in the Hellenistic period.
The Roman generals saved the city, which was attacked by pirates for a long time, through sea battles. At the city’s entrance, aqueducts decorated with sculptural pedestals stand out.
Patara Ancient City
Patara is one of the most important Antalya ancient cities and a must-visit destination for those who love history and archeology. Patara, located between Fethiye and Kalkan, has the longest sandy beach in the Mediterranean, 14 kilometers.
At the city’s entrance is a monumental statue of Roman Mettius Modestus dating back to the 100s. The gate also uses as an aqueduct. Viewed from above, the ruins of a bath and Byzantine basilica, as well as a temple with a Corinthian head, stand out.
Andriake Ancient City
Andriake Ancient City locates on the road from Kas to Demre; it is among the ancient cities of Antalya. At the same time, the most crucial ruin of the city is Hadrian’s granary.
The people used the granary to store the wheat produced in Myra and nearby cities for shipment to Rome. There are Hadrian and Faustina busts from Hadrian’s period at the middle gate of the town.
Myra Ancient City
Myra Ancient City, one of the essential Antalya ancient cities, is 2 km from Demre. This region’s theater ruins and rock tombs date back to the 5th century BC. As in Roman theaters, the stage structure is in the form of an amphitheater.
Side Ancient City
You can visit the ancient city of Side, which is among Antalya ancient cities, free of charge.
The area has preserved remnants of an ancient market, a theatre, a colonnaded street, and many other structures. Side Antique City is one of the cities of Aeolia, which impresses with the temple of Apollo.
Aspendos Ancient City
Aspendos Ancient City locates in the Serik district of Antalya, near Koprucay. According to Greek legends, this city was built by colonists from Argos after the Trojan War.
Aspendos is one of the first cities in Anatolia to mint coins in its name. In the 66th century BC, the city was ruled by the Persians. The town has a theatre, a human temple, temples of Apollo and Athena, and many other valuable works.
Are Antalya Ancient Cities Worth It?
For those interested in history and archeology, the ancient cities of Antalya are worth seeing. These ancient cities provide a unique glimpse into the past and offer a fascinating glimpse into the historical and cultural heritage of the region. Whether you’re a history buff or just interested in exploring new places, Antalya’s ancient cities are worth a visit.