Turkey’s world-famous ancient cities and archaeological sites will welcome visitors again during the process of normalization in the fight against the coronavirus.
Many of these sites are on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Cultural Heritage List and are now ready for the process of controlled normalization. Here is a list of ancient cities in Antalya that you can visit.
Ancient city of Perga
The Mediterranean Region, one of the most preferred areas for vacation, attracts attention with its ancient cities and ruins. The ancient city of Perga, located in the Aksu district of Antalya province, bears traces of the late classical, Hellenistic and predominantly Roman periods. It is among the most-visited places by tourists.
Ancient city of Patara
Patara, one of the 16 cities of the ancient Lycian League that had the right to vote, is among the cities that were besieged by Alexander the Great. It is worth noting that Patara, which was an important trade center during the Roman period, maintained its importance during the Byzantine period. The Turkish government has declared 2020 as the year of Patara.
Ancient city of Myra
The ancient city of Myra, located in and around the Demre district of Antalya, is named after the plain it was founded on. The city was connected to the sea via a thoroughfare canal to the west of Demre Creek, while sea transportation and trade were carried out from Andriake Port on the other side of the canal. In Myra, which is famous for its Lycian rock tombs, Roman theater and Byzantine Church of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus), excavations are being carried out by the Archaeology Department of Akdeniz University.
Ancient city of Phaselis
The ancient city of Phaselis, founded in the seventh century B.C. in Tekirova in the Kemer district of Antalya, was home to many civilizations. Its harbors, agoras and the depictions of ships printed on its coins are among the features that emphasize Phaselis’ identity as a trade port.
Ancient city of Termessos
The ancient city of Termessos, located in the Döşemealtı district of Antalya province, left its mark on history as the city that Alexander the Great could not seize due to its strong defenses. It opens the door to another world for its visitors with its unique structures and endemic plants and wildlife.
