Phaselis Ancient City | Antalya

Phaselis Ancient City is a fascinating and picturesque archaeological site located on the Turkish Mediterranean coast, near the modern town of Tekirova, approximately 15 kilometers (9 miles) to the south of Kemer and about 55 kilometers (34 miles) from Antalya. Set amidst lush pine forests and alongside beautiful sandy beaches, Phaselis is a well-preserved ancient city that offers visitors a combination of rich history, stunning ruins, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Phaselis was once a powerful and prosperous Greek and Roman city and played a significant role in ancient trade and maritime activities due to its strategic location on the coast. Today, it is a popular tourist destination where visitors can explore its archaeological remains, relax on its beaches, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Historical Background of Phaselis:

Phaselis was founded around the 7th century BC by Greek settlers from the island of Rhodes. The city developed into an important maritime and trade hub because of its natural harbors and strategic position along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea.

During its long history, Phaselis was part of various empires, including the Lycian, Roman, and Byzantine empires. It became a part of the Lycian League and later flourished under Roman rule.

The city's importance as a trade center declined with the rise of other cities in the region, and by the 7th century AD, it was largely abandoned, likely due to Arab invasions and earthquakes.

Phaselis' proximity to the sea made it vulnerable to pirate attacks, which may have contributed to its decline as well.

Key Features of Phaselis Ancient City:

1. Archaeological Ruins:

City Gates: Phaselis is surrounded by well-preserved city walls and gates, including the main gate located at the entrance of the archaeological site. These gates mark the boundaries of the ancient city, and parts of the defensive walls are still visible.

Agora (Market Place): The Agora in Phaselis was the city’s central square and marketplace, where people gathered for trade, socializing, and public events. This large open area is surrounded by impressive columns and ruins of surrounding structures.

Theater: One of the most iconic structures in Phaselis is the ancient theater, which could hold up to 3,000 spectators. The theater is built into the hillside and offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscape and the sea. The stage and seating areas are well-preserved, and the theater is still used for performances and events during the summer months.

Baths: The Roman Baths in Phaselis are another highlight. These baths were an important part of Roman culture and social life. The ruins include the remains of the pools, changing rooms, and heating systems, giving insight into the city's public bathing culture.

Streets and Columns: The ancient city's streets are lined with columns and remnants of public buildings, providing a glimpse of the city's urban layout. The main street of Phaselis, known as the Colonnaded Street, runs through the site and is flanked by columns, creating a stunning historical atmosphere.

Temples: Phaselis is home to several temples dedicated to gods such as Apollo and Hermes, and their remains can be found scattered throughout the city. Some temples have pillars and statues still visible, providing a sense of the city’s religious importance during antiquity.

2. Natural Beauty and Beaches:

One of the most unique aspects of Phaselis is its stunning setting along the coast. The city is located near three beautiful beaches, each with its own charm:

North Beach: This beach is located near the city entrance and offers a quieter spot to swim, with crystal-clear waters and a lovely view of the surrounding ruins.

South Beach: This beach is located near the ancient harbor and is surrounded by pine trees. The water here is ideal for swimming, and it’s also a good place to relax and enjoy the natural scenery.

East Beach: The east beach is another peaceful area, offering a tranquil environment and the opportunity to relax by the sea while surrounded by nature.

Pine Forests: The pine forests surrounding Phaselis create a peaceful and shaded environment, perfect for walking, hiking, and exploring the ruins. The scent of the pine trees adds to the serene atmosphere of the site.

3. The Harbors:

Phaselis had three harbors, each serving different purposes. The main harbor was used for trade and commercial activities, while the military harbor was likely used for naval operations. The small harbor was used for local and smaller boats.

Today, the remains of these harbors are still visible, with sections of the mosaic floor and docks still intact. The view from the harbors gives visitors an impression of how important maritime activity was to the ancient city.

4. Ancient Water Systems:

The city had an advanced water distribution system, with aqueducts and cisterns used to supply fresh water to the residents. The remnants of the aqueducts can still be seen, and some of the ancient water channels remain intact.

5. Archaeological Museum:

Although there is no large museum on-site, many of the artifacts and sculptures discovered at Phaselis are on display at the Antalya Museum, which showcases many of the ancient city’s treasures, including statues, coins, and pottery.

Mythological Connections:

Like many ancient cities, Phaselis has ties to Greek mythology. The city's name is thought to come from Phaselus, a character in Greek mythology. According to the myth, Phaselus was a son of the god Hermes and the nymph of a river, and the city’s name is derived from this mythological figure.

Nearby Attractions:

Olympos Ancient City: Located just a short distance from Phaselis, Olympos is another important ancient city that offers fascinating ruins and stunning beaches. The Chimaera (Yanartaş), with its eternal flames, is nearby.

Tahtalı Dağı (Mount Olympos): For those interested in nature and hiking, the nearby Tahtalı Dağı (also known as Mount Olympos) offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Visitors can reach the summit by taking the Tahtalı Cable Car.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit Phaselis is in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the crowds are fewer. The summer months (July and August) can be quite hot, making it less ideal for exploring the ruins. However, the cooler months make it perfect for enjoying the beaches and hiking.

Conclusion:

Phaselis Ancient City is a captivating blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and mythology. The city’s well-preserved ruins, its scenic location by the sea, and its peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Antalya region. Whether you are a history buff, an archaeology enthusiast, or simply looking to relax by the beach, Phaselis offers something for everyone.