Why Aphrodisias is a must for every traveler to Turkey?
Imagine a city dedicated to the goddess of love and beauty hidden in the rolling hills of Turkey. Aphrodisias, named after Aphrodite, is a place that would have made even the gods proud! This ancient city is not only a cultural masterpiece but also a paradise for every history lover. With its breathtaking ruins, famous stadium and exquisite sculptures, you will be transported to a world that is thousands of years old.
History: What makes Aphrodisias so special?
The historical heart of antiquity
- Early settlement: Aphrodisias' roots date back to the late Neolithic, but it was in the Roman period that the city flourished.
- Center of art and culture: Known for its school of sculpture, the masterpieces from Aphrodisias contributed to the city's fame. The works of art are scattered throughout the ancient world and serve as testaments to artistic heritage.
- Archaeological wonders: From Tetrapylon Street to the Odeon, Aphrodisias is peppered with historical wonders. Every building, every temple and every play tells its own story.
What is there to experience in Aphrodisias?
Immerse yourself in the world of antiquity
- The stadium: With a capacity of 30.000 spectators, the stadium of Aphrodisias was one of the largest of its kind in the ancient world.
- The Aphrodite Temple: A sanctuary dedicated to the goddess whose ruins still inspire awe today.
- The Aphrodisias Museum: Here you will find an impressive collection of sculptures and reliefs found in the city.
Sights in the ancient city of Aphrodisias
Aphrodisias was a major ancient city in the Karia region of Turkey and is now an impressive archaeological site. Here are some of the standout sights:
- Tetrapylon: Dating from the 2nd century AD, this impressive monumental gate is an imposing entrance to the city and a popular photo spot.
- Stadium: Aphrodisias had an impressive stadium that could accommodate around 30.000 spectators. It is one of the best-preserved ancient stadiums in the world.
- Sebastian: This temple complex was dedicated to the Roman imperial cult and is known for its well-preserved reliefs and inscriptions depicting history and mythology.
- Aphrodite Temple: The temple, which was dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite, gives the city its name. Although it no longer stands in its original splendor, some columns and fragments remain.
- The theater: Aphrodisias has an impressive ancient theater with a capacity of around 8.000 spectators.
- Aphrodisias Museum: The museum near the archaeological site houses many of the artifacts found and provides further insight into the city's history.
- Nymphaeum: This Roman fountain shrine is known for its well-preserved decorations and statues and was an important social gathering place in the ancient city.
- Now: The ancient Agora of Aphrodisias was the center of urban life and trade. It includes a variety of columns, buildings and monuments.
- Hadrian's Temple: This temple was dedicated to Emperor Hadrian and is known for its classical architecture.
- Bouleuterion: This building served as a meeting place for the city councils and is another example of the impressive architecture in Aphrodisias.
The ancient city of Aphrodisias offers a fascinating journey into the past, displaying impressive archaeological remains that reflect the rich history and culture of this region. It's definitely worth a visit if you're interested in ancient history and archaeology.
Admission, opening times, tickets & tours
For up-to-date information on entry, opening times, tickets and tours in Aphrodisias, you should consult the resort's official website or local tourism offices. These provide the most accurate and up-to-date information. Note that opening hours and ticket prices may vary depending on the season or special events. It's also a good idea to check before your visit to see if there are any special offers or combo tickets that offer access to multiple attractions in the area. For a deeper exploration of the history and culture of Aphrodisias, guided tours could be a worthwhile option. These are often led by experienced guides who provide detailed insights into the ancient ruins and their history.
Sights in the area
There are several other attractions and places you can visit around the ancient city of Aphrodisias. Here are some of them:
- Karacasu: This town near Aphrodisias is known for its carpet making and offers the opportunity to experience local craftsmanship.
- Kaklık Mausoleum: This mausoleum dates back to the 2nd century BC. BC and is a remarkable example of ancient burial sites. It is located about 10 kilometers northeast of Aphrodisias.
- Denizli: The town of Denizli is not far from Aphrodisias and is a good base for exploring the region. In Denizli you can visit the ancient theater of Hierapolis and the famous Pamukkale limestone terraces.
- Hierapolis: This ancient city, often visited in conjunction with Pamukkale, features an impressive Roman theater, necropolises and ancient baths.
- Laodicea: Located about 15 kilometers northwest of Aphrodisias, this ancient city boasts an abundance of historical ruins, including an impressive stadium and theater.
- Colossae: Near Denizli, you can visit the remains of the ancient city of Colossae, known for its connection to the Bible and mention in the New Testament.
- Kaklık Cave: Located near Aphrodisias, this cave is known for its natural beauty and stalactite formations.
- Alabanda: This ancient city, located about 40 kilometers northwest of Aphrodisias, features archaeological remains such as a theater, an agora and a gymnasium.
- Intellectual: The town of Aydın is close to Aphrodisias and is another starting point for exploring the region. Here you will find historical sites such as the Tralleis Theater and the Ayasuluk Castle.
- Mount Babadğ: If you want to enjoy nature, Mount Babadağ near Aphrodisias offers hiking opportunities and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
These attractions and places around Aphrodisias offer a rich variety of historical, cultural and natural experiences that will enrich your trip to the region.
What should you bring?
- Comfortable clothing and shoes: The ruins cover a large area and require a lot of walking.
- Water and snacks: It can get hot, especially in summer.
- Camera: For the incredible photo moments.
- Sunscreen and hat: Protection from the sun is essential.
Getting there: How do you get to Aphrodisias?
To get to Aphrodisias, you have several options depending on where you are starting from and what type of travel experience you prefer:
- By Car: Aphrodisias is located in the southwestern part of Turkey, near Geyre. From larger cities like Izmir or Denizli you can arrive by car via well-developed roads. Make sure you have a map or GPS device to find the route to the archaeological site.
- By bus: Many Turkish cities offer bus services to Karacasu or Nazilli, which are the closest cities to Aphrodisias. From there you can take a taxi or a local minibus (dolmuş) to Aphrodisias.
- Guided tours: Many tour companies offer day trips or longer tours to Aphrodisias, often in combination with other attractions in the region such as Pamukkale. These tours usually include transportation, entrance fees, and sometimes a guide.
- By train: There is no direct train connection to Aphrodisias, but you can travel to nearby cities such as Denizli and continue from there.
No matter which option you choose, it is advisable to plan your trip in advance and check if there are any seasonal changes in schedules or opening times. Wear comfortable shoes to explore the ruins and bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
Conclusion: Why Aphrodisias is an unforgettable experience
Aphrodisias is not just an ancient city; it is a time capsule that transports you to a world full of history, culture and breathtaking beauty. Whether you're wandering around the stadium or admiring the sculptures in the museum, you'll feel like you're standing right next to the ancient citizens. Pack your bags, grab your camera and get ready for an adventure you won't forget. Aphrodisias is waiting for you to discover it!
