Mediterranean Vacations: 6 Great Historical Sites Near Antalya, Turkey
Antalya, or old Anatolia, is one of Turkey’s most stunning Mediterranean vacation spots. Not only can you soak up the sun and take in the views of the gorgeous Taurus Mountains from the clean beaches, but there are also several unique historical places to explore that capture everything the area has to offer. Apply for a turkey visa online, book your trip to Turkey now, get packed and explore the strange world.
Here are some of the great historical sites to see when in Antalya:
ASPENDOS
Aspendos is one of Turkey’s best-preserved Roman theatres. Marcus Aurelius designed the theatre, which was completed in 155 A.D. Performances are still held in the theatre today. The Aspendos Opera & Ballet Festival takes place every year from mid-July to mid-August. You may arrive early to tour the city’s ruins before stepping back in time to watch a dramatic play in the old theatre. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you will never forget.
KEKOVA/SIMENA
Simena, the ancient Lycian city, and Kekova is the territory of Simena, which is largely buried underwater owing to an earthquake in the 2nd century A.D. You may take a boat excursion or, for a little more daring, kayak across the beautiful turquoise water to observe the buried city, then go over to the town of Kale to tour the historic fortress that served as the Crusaders’ stronghold. Swimming within the remains of the buried city is banned. However, there are designated locations for scuba dive and swimming in the Mediterranean Sea’s pristine waters.
TERMESSOS
Hike for around 30 minutes to the remains of Termessos, which are located approximately 1000 metres above sea level in Anatolia’s Taurus Mountains. On a clear day, the theatre provides amazing views over Antalya and the Mediterranean Sea. Explore Hadrian’s Triumphal Arch, the gymnasium, the agora, cisterns, and wonderfully adorned sarcophagi strewn over the site. Termessos is most known for being one of the cities that Alexander the Great could not take in 333 BC due to its impregnable position on the mountaintop. This is an excellent site.
PERGE
Perge is around 9 miles east of Antalya and was founded circa 1000 BC. Ancient Perge was one of Pamphylia’s most beautiful and prosperous towns. The Apostle Paul is said to have passed through Perge twice in the Bible’s book of Acts. Perge is known for its well-preserved site and its Temple of Artemis.
PHASAELIS
Phasaelis is an ancient Lycian city dating around 700 BC. Spend the day visiting the little historic town and then cooling down in the Mediterranean’s clear waves. Are you planning a day excursion from Antalya by boat? You may take a boat excursion that will stop in Phasaelis’ harbour, where you may plunge in the water, rest on the pebble beach, and spend the day.
MUSEUM OF ANTALYA
The Antalya Museum, which has won several awards, has all of the most important objects from Anatolian historical locations. It is one of Turkey’s largest museums, illuminating the Mediterranean region’s rich history.
Whether you are a history geek or want to explore a few places in the Anatolian Region while on vacation, you can visit these beloved historical locations and learn a lot about this land’s rich legacy while having a good time. But before exploring these places, you should apply for a turkey visa with turkeyvisaonline.com, a cheap and the best Turkish visa agency.
