Ruins of Phaselis

Updated: 1.03.2023 14:00:00
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The Ruins of Phaselis is a fascinating historical site located in Antalya, Turkey. It offers visitors a glimpse into the ancient world and the unique culture that once existed in this part of the world. The ruins are situated in a beautiful coastal setting and are surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, which makes for a unique and enjoyable experience for tourists.

As one of the most significant ancient cities in Lycia, Phaselis has a rich history that dates back to the 7th century BC. The city was founded by the Phoenicians and was later conquered by the Persians and the Romans, who both left their marks on the city's architecture and culture.

The city was known for its strategic location on the Mediterranean coast, which made it a popular trading center for many civilizations. Phaselis was also famous for its production of rose oil, which was exported all over the ancient world. Today, visitors can explore the ruins of this ancient city and learn about its history and significance.

In this blog post, we will explore the Ruins of Phaselis in detail, including its location, history, and what visitors can expect to see. We will also provide information on how to get there and whether there is an entrance fee. So, if you are planning a trip to Turkey and want to discover some of its rich history, the Ruins of Phaselis should definitely be on your list of places to visit.

Where is Ruins of Phaselis?

The Ruins of Phaselis are located in Tekirova, which is approximately 50 kilometers south of Antalya. This ancient city was established on a narrow strip of land between the mountains and the sea, which made it an important center of commerce during the Hellenistic and Roman periods.

How to get to Ruins of Phaselis?

The easiest way to get to the Ruins of Phaselis is by car or public transportation. If you are driving, take the D400 highway south from Antalya towards Kemer. After passing through Kemer, continue on the highway for about 15 kilometers until you reach Tekirova. Once you arrive, you will see signs pointing towards the ruins.

If you are taking public transportation, you can take a dolmuş (shared taxi) from the central bus station in Antalya. The dolmuş will take you to the town of Tekirova, where you can then take a short taxi ride to the ruins.

The history of Ruins of Phaselis?

The Ruins of Phaselis are a testament to the rich history of Turkey. The ancient city of Phaselis was founded in the 7th century BC by colonists from Rhodes. The city quickly became a major center of trade, thanks to its strategic location along the Mediterranean Sea. Phaselis was known for its production of perfumes, which were exported throughout the ancient world.

In the 4th century BC, Phaselis became a member of the Lycian League, a confederation of ancient cities in the region. During this time, Phaselis enjoyed a period of prosperity, with impressive public buildings and monuments constructed throughout the city.

In 333 BC, Alexander the Great arrived in Phaselis during his campaign to conquer the Persian Empire. The city surrendered to Alexander without a fight, and he spared the inhabitants, who continued to live in Phaselis under Greek rule.

During the Roman era, Phaselis continued to prosper, with new buildings and infrastructure constructed throughout the city. In the 2nd century AD, Phaselis became the capital of the province of Lycia and Pamphylia.

Over time, however, the city's strategic importance declined, and it was eventually abandoned. Today, the Ruins of Phaselis offer a glimpse into the past, with well-preserved structures such as the ancient harbor, the agora, and the theater.

Visitors to the Ruins of Phaselis can walk in the footsteps of ancient traders, explore the ruins of impressive public buildings, and imagine what life was like in this once-great city. The history of Phaselis is an important part of Turkey's rich cultural heritage, and a visit to the ruins is a must for anyone interested in history and archaeology.

What can you see in Ruins of Phaselis?

The Ruins of Phaselis are spread out over a large area, and visitors can explore a variety of ancient structures, including theaters, temples, and public baths. The city's three harbors are also still visible, along with the ancient walls that once protected the city.

One of the most striking features of Phaselis is its well-preserved aqueduct system, which supplied the city with water from the nearby mountains. Visitors can also see the remains of a Byzantine church, as well as the city's main avenue, which is lined with shops and other commercial buildings.

Is there an entrance fee to Ruins of Phaselis?

Yes, there is an entrance fee to the Ruins of Phaselis. As of 2023, the fee is 35 TL for adults, and 20 TL for students. Children under the age of 12 can enter for free. The site is open every day of the week, from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm during the summer months, and from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm during the winter.