PHASELIS ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE
Information
Opening/Closing Hours
Opening time: 08:00
Closing time: 19:00
Box Office Closing Time: 18:45
Closed Days
Open every day
Address: Tekirova Mahallesi 8011 Sokak No:1 Kemer / Antalya
E-mail: -
Phone 1: 02428214506
€10 - Open

Description

Phaselis, situated on a small peninsula extending into the Mediterranean Sea, was founded as a port city in the 7th century BC. The city has three ports: the North Harbor, the Central Harbor (also known as War Harbor), and the South Harbor. For a long time, Phaselis was the busiest port city in the eastern part of Lycia, and its main source of income was sea trade. The city's coins featured ship images to emphasize the importance of sea trade. However, the city's strategic importance was the main reason for its capture. Phaselis was ruled by the Persians before opening its doors to Alexander the Great, who stayed for a month. Later, it fell under pirate sovereignty for a period. During the Byzantine period, Phaselis became a bishopric center, but it eventually lost its significance and was abandoned in the early 13th century, like many other cities in the region. The History Hidden In Natural Beauty Phaselis is not only rich in history but also boasts magnificent natural beauty and a beautiful beach. Visitors can explore the ruins without being disturbed by the Mediterranean sun, thanks to the pine trees that surround and extend into the ancient city. The city walls, built along the seashore to protect the city from pirate attacks, are the first remarkable ruins near the harbours. Another important feature is the magnificent aqueducts built to bring water from Tahtalı Mountain. During the early periods, the water needs of the city were met by wells and cisterns. However, in the Roman period, arches were built to bring water from long distances and distribute it to all parts of the city through canals. The main port, located in the southern part of the city, is connected to the city center by a 25-meter-wide street paved with smooth stones. This street forms the main axis of the city and is flanked by Roman and Byzantine ruins on both sides. There are two baths, one large and one small. The smaller bath features details that shed light on how the baths were heated during the Roman period. The entrance to the South Harbor, built in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian's visit to the city, is still visible. Each building, including the monumental fountain and theater, is beautiful and takes visitors on a journey through history. Even the current ruins attest to Phaselis's ancient glory. However, it is believed that the city was much larger in the past.