JOURNEY TO ANTIQUITY: THE MOST BEAUTIFUL ANCIENT CITIES OF TURKEY

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Turkey is extremely rich in unique historical sights. On the picturesque shores of the country's Mediterranean and Aegean seas, the ancient Greeks once founded many of the most beautiful and progressive cities, the ruins of which amaze visitors to the country to this day.

Antalya is the ancient heart of Turkey

Only in Antalya there is a unique opportunity to get acquainted with the ancient history of Turkey, without breaking away from interesting entertainment and a relaxing beach holiday. Antalya is rich in the ruins of ancient cities from the Lycian, Roman and Byzantine periods. Some of them are perfectly preserved and impress with their scale even today.

One of these cities is the ancient city of Myra, which at one time was the largest settlement on the territory of Lycia. It was here that Saint Nicholas the Wonderworker lived and became famous.

Termessos is one of the largest ancient cities in Turkey. The history of this city is truly legendary: it was built as an impregnable fortress and was never captured during the entire period of its existence; even Alexander the Great failed in his attempt to capture the fortress city.

Since ancient times, Patara has been the largest religious center. A sanctuary of Apollo with an oracle, known in the ancient Greek world, was located here. Some of the other important structures that can be seen here are the majestic Roman Arch of Triumph, the temples, the Boulewterion (Parliament building) and the Patara Lighthouse, which is believed to be the oldest lighthouse in the world (it is around 2,000 years old).

Another ancient ruins near Antalya are the ruins of the ancient city of Phaselis. The city was founded by the Greeks in the VII century BC. Today, tourists flock here to relax on secluded wild beaches among pine trees and ancient ruins.

Izmir is a city with a rich history

Izmir is often called the "pearl of the Aegean Sea". This city is a true paradise for history lovers: there are hundreds of ruins of ancient cities and ancient buildings.

The picturesque ruins of the ancient metropolis of Ephesus allow you to soak up the ancient atmosphere and join the rich cultural and historical heritage of Turkey. Ephesus is a unique museum city included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The famous Temple of Artemis is located here - one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

The ancient city of Pergamum was an important religious and medical center in ancient times. Remains of the famous Great Library of Pergamum, which has 200 thousand scrolls, were found among its ruins. However, the most outstanding masterpiece of this city is the Pergamon Altar - one of the most significant monuments of the Hellenistic period, which is quite well preserved.

Pamukkale is the tourist mecca of Turkey

Pamukkale is one of the most famous natural and cultural sites in Turkey. It includes both natural masterpieces – travertine terraces, and the immense archaeological zone of the ancient city of Hierapolis. The city was founded in the II century BC and served as an important cultural and health center during the Roman era. Hierapolis became famous throughout the ancient world for its healing thermal springs. The city was also home to a famous ancient religious shrine - the Temple of Apollo. Today, the main attraction of the ruins of Hierapolis is the amphitheater, which could hold up to 12 000 spectators, and the necropolis, which has more than 1200 tombs. Tourists can also see Cleopatra's Pool, walk under the Arch of Triumph and the Byzantine Gate, and visit the tomb of St. Philip the Apostle, who lived and preached here.