The Ancient City of Patara: A Hidden Gem in Turkey

Turkey is a country rich in history and culture, with many ancient cities waiting to be explored. One such hidden gem is Patara, a city that was once a major port and religious center in ancient Lycia. Today, Patara is a fascinating archaeological site that offers visitors a glimpse into the past.

A brief history of Patara

Patara was founded in the 8th century BC and quickly became an important city in the Lycian League. The city’s strategic location on the Mediterranean Sea made it a major trading hub, and its religious significance was boosted by the presence of a temple dedicated to Apollo. Patara was also home to a famous oracle, which was consulted by people from all over the ancient world.

Patara’s importance continued into the Roman era, and the city was visited by several emperors, including Hadrian and Vespasian. Patara remained an important city throughout the Byzantine period, but it began to decline in the Middle Ages. The city was eventually abandoned in the 15th century.

Exploring the ruins of Patara

Today, Patara is an impressive archaeological site that is open to visitors. The ruins of the city are spread over a large area, and there is much to see. Some of the most notable sights include:

• The Arch of Mettius Modestus: This monumental arch was built in the 1st century AD and is one of the best-preserved structures in Patara.
• The Roman Theatre: This large theatre could seat up to 6,000 people and was once the scene of plays, concerts, and other events.
• The Temple of Apollo: This temple was once a major religious center and was home to a famous oracle.
• The Granary of Hadrian: This impressive granary was built by the Emperor Hadrian and could store large amounts of grain.
• The Bathhouse of Vespasian: This bathhouse was built by the Emperor Vespasian and is one of the best-preserved bathhouses in the ancient world.
• The Necropolis: This large cemetery contains the tombs of many of Patara’s citizens.

In addition to these sights, visitors can also explore the city’s agora, or marketplace, as well as several other temples, churches, and public buildings.

How to get to Patara

Patara is located in the Antalya Province of Turkey. The easiest way to get to Patara is to fly to Antalya Airport and then take a bus or taxi to the city. Patara is also accessible by car.

When to visit Patara

The best time to visit Patara is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild. The summer can be quite hot, and the winter can be rainy.

Tips for visiting Patara

• Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
• Bring sunscreen and a hat, as there is little shade at the site.
• Allow plenty of time to explore the ruins.
• Be sure to visit the museum, which contains many artifacts from Patara.

Patara: A must-see destination for history lovers

Patara is a must-see destination for anyone interested in ancient history. The city’s impressive ruins and rich history make it a fascinating place to explore. With its beautiful beaches and stunning scenery, Patara is also a great place to relax and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere.