Explore About Patara Ancient City

Welcome to ancient Patara, Turkey. This beautiful and historically significant place will enthrall your senses. Whether you enjoy nature, and history, or are just searching for something unique, this is the perfect place for you.

This charming city displays a wealth of historical sites, including well-preserved ancient ruins that include some of Turkey's most striking architectural designs. Discover Patara ancient city's hidden treasures and its interesting history on the Turkish Riviera. So, let’s dive in!

Where Is The Ancient City Of Patara, Turkey?

Patara Ancient City is located in the boundaries of the Kaş district in the province of Antalya. Situated between Fethiye, the Muğla district, and Kaş, the westernmost district of Antalya, this city is easily accessible. It is located inside the boundaries of what is now Gelemis Village at the southwest corner of the Xanthos Valley.

Because it was the intersection of land and maritime trade routes, the city used to be a major commercial center. The well-known Oracle of Apollo, the deity of prophecy, was also located there, and legend has it that Alexander the Great traveled there to hear his fortune told. Visitors can be in awe of the amazing ruins that have been unearthed thus far, even if much of the city has not yet been made public.

The Patara Ancient City used to be a major commercial center

History Of Patara Ancient City

Located in the province of Antalya, Patara is an old city with a rich and colorful history. The Lycians established it in the 7th century BC, and it acted as their capital until 333 BC, when Alexander the Great annexed it.

Throughout its history, the town has been ruled by the Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans, among others. Patara's beautiful natural beach on the Mediterranean coast and rich cultural history have made it a popular tourist destination in modern times.

Located in the province of Antalya, Patara is an old city with a rich and colorful history

Things To Do In Patara 

You might start your visit to Patara by exploring the historic city. The Triumphal Arch, Tepecik Cemetery, and numerous more buildings that greet you at the city's entry will make you appreciate Patara even more. You may enjoy the water and sunbathe on Patara Beach's fine sand after exploring the city. Let us now take a quick look at things to do in Patara.

Tepecik Cemetery

As you enter the city and go past the toll booth, you will notice this area on your right. This area's structural work is the Lycian Region's first cemetery (necropolis) excavation. A stone ax from the second millennium B.C and ceramic fragments from the tenth century were discovered as a result of the research done here. This goes considerably further back in Lycia's history.

The most noticeable examples of the Lycian tomb type are covered sarcophagi. Although they were rare, cremation burials were also discovered during the inquiry. Most of the surviving burials in the cemetery date back to the Roman era, and it has been in use for a very long time.

Patara is an old city with a rich and colorful history

Arch of Triumph

One of the best-preserved Roman arches in Turkey, the Arch of Triumph, is another must-see location in the ancient Patara. This ancient building was constructed to honor Marcus Aurelius' triumph against the Parthians in AD 165. This arch's craftsmanship and attention to detail are astounding, and a trip to Patara, Turkey would not be complete without seeing it.

Octagonal Pool

The Octagonal Pool is situated south of the Triumphal Arch. The pool's dimensions are 10.24 meters on the outside and 7.30 meters on the inside, with an octagonal layout. Blocks of local limestone were used to build it. The interior water tank measures about 5.50 meters.

The first structures to greet visitors arriving by land were the Octagonal Pool and the Mettius Modestus Arch. Without a doubt, the message conveyed to people who arrived in the city was striking through this visuality.

Patara Ancient City is easily accessible

Harbor Bath

You can stroll a bit farther after the Octagonal Pool to see the Harbor Bath and the Leto Date Palm adjacent to it. Of course, in such a grand and significant port city as Patara, bath constructions are highly likely to be encountered. Additionally, Harbor Bath is situated directly east of Patara Port.

The south side of the bath has a Piscina, or cold water pool. Here, too, the Roman heating technology known as hypocaust was employed. The bath is meant to remain upright thanks to the supports. You can still view and take pictures of it from the outside even if you are unable to enter.

Patara Beach 

Another major draw in this historic city is Patara Beach. With its 17 miles of pristine natural beauty and its pristine waters, it is the ideal spot for swimming and tanning. Loggerhead turtles make their home on the beach, and if you are lucky, you may get to see them hatch and head out to sea. Spend some time exploring the ruins close to the shore as you enjoy the sun and sand.

Read more about Discovering The Best Beach In Turkey For Your Holiday

Leto Date Garden

One of the gods that mythology encounters the most is God Apollo. Without a doubt, Apollo is the most revered and worshipped god due to his oracle feature. 

The Leto Date Palm tree you see here is known as the place where Leto gave birth to Apollo. Let us look at the tale of Leto giving birth to Apollo and Artemis if you would like.

According to mythology: Leto, the daughter of Khaeos and Phebe, is worshiped as a goddess despite being the child of titans. Zeus, the powerful leader of the gods, falls in love with her much to the jealousy of his wife Hera. To prevent Leto from giving birth, Hera assigns Python to ensure she cannot do so where the sun rises.

Basilica

One of the greatest and oldest structures constructed in Lycia during the Christian era is the Basilica, which you will see beside the road. The building is 32 meters in width and 61 meters in total length. It unfolds as the portions of the naos, narthex, and atrium in succession. Southwest of the basilica is where you will find the Bishop's Palace.

You will not be surprised to learn that this wonderful city of Lycia has a theater. Restored to its former glory, the historic theater is thought to have been built circa 6000 BC. It was constructed sometime in the 2nd and the 1st centuries. It was built on the northern slopes of Kurşunlutepe to shelter from the wind due to its location. There are a total of 39 rows of seats, with 20 located in the theater's lower area and 14 in its upper section.

Patara is a must-visit location

Conclusion On The Patara Ancient City

Discovering the historic city of Patara in Turkey provides a lovely fusion of natural beauty, architecture, and history. This city is a monument to the imagination and skill of its ancient inhabitants, from the stunning theatre to the majestic Arch of Triumph. Families will love it there, especially those who are passionate about the outdoors or history.

Don't forget to visit the beach in Patara, where you can swim in the pristine sea, or trek the trails to enjoy the breathtaking scenery. For any traveler hoping to experience the real spirit of Turkey, Patara is a must-visit location with an almost limitless selection of attractions to view and activities to partake in.

If you’re looking for other beautiful places to explore in Antalya, don’t miss 10 Top-Rated Antalya Tourist Attractions.

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