Overview:

Patara Ancient City dates back to the Lycian Empire, and is located in the Antalya Province, in southern Turkey. This site was once the capital of the Lycian Empire and is known for its exquisite theater as well as its abundant archaeological remains spanning over 2000 years. Here, visitors can explore a wide range of elements, including the monumental city gates, city walls, baths, library, churches, aqueducts, and other structures. The necropolis at Patara hosts hundreds of Lycian tombs carved into the cliffs of the Gol Mountain. The majestic amphitheater is the grandest structure in Patara and seats 10,000 spectators. The site is also known for its long sandy beaches, which are perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Patara is a true delight for history and archaeology buffs. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Turkey
Prominent Features:

1. Acropolis: Patara Ancient City contains the remains of an acropolis dating from the Hellenistic period. This acropolis consists of remains of two temples, which were dedicated to Zeus and Athena. 2. Byzantine Church: The Byzantine Church of St. Nicholas is one of the most important buildings of Patara. It has a gabled roof, and resembles a Greek Orthodox Church. 3. Roman Baths: The baths of Patara are among the best-preserved Roman baths in the region. The hot rooms, cold rooms, and hot tubs are still visible today. 4. St. Paul's Bridge:There is a famous bridge in Patara dedicated to St. Paul. This bridge, built in the 5th century, was part of the road St. Paul used to go from Ephesus to Antioch in Syria and then on towards Rome. 5. Amphitheatre:The theatre of Patara, built during the 2nd century AD, was used for gladiatorial combats and other forms of entertainment. It is now partially ruined due to erosion, but much of it is still intact and available to view. 6. Patara Lighthouse: Patara Lighthouse is one of the seven wonders of the ancient world. It is believed to date back to the 3rd Century BC. This ancient lighthouse is still shining today, providing some spectacular views of the city of Patara and its surroundings. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Turkey.

History:

Patara was an ancient Lycian city located on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey, in the modern-day province of Antalya. It served as the capital of the region of Lycia in Ancient times and is believed to be one of the oldest cities in Anatolia. The city was initially founded in the 11th century BC as a settlement belonging to the kingdom of Lycia. During this period, it was an important commercial center in the region and held strategic value due to its strategic position between the Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea. The city rose to prominence during the Hellenistic period, particularly under the Seleucid Empire. During this time, the city was heavily fortified and powerful walls were constructed to protect the city from invading forces. The city was also the site of a major port, used to transport goods and materials between the Mediterranean and Eastern Mediterranean. It was an important naval base during the 4th century BC when Alexander the Great conquered the region. At its height, the city spanned over 15 sq km and included a large harbor and amphitheater. It also included a number of temples and monuments dedicated to various gods and goddesses. In 43 AD, the city was taken over by the Roman Empire and it remained part of the empire for several centuries. During this time, the city's infrastructure was improved and it became a major center for trade and commerce. Patara eventually fell into decline during the 6th century AD and was eventually abandoned by the 11th century AD. The ruins of the city are now a popular tourist attraction in Antalya and a source of great archeological interest. Visit one of the famous monuments of Turkey with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Patara was an important port city in ancient Lycia, situated in the district of Kaş in Antalya Province, Turkey. It was the collective capital of the Lycian confederacy, and is thought to be the largest city in Lycia. 2. Patara was the birthplace of the famous Lycian King, King Gyananda, who was immortalized in the Iliad. It is believed to be the birthplace of St. Nicholas, the 4th century bishop of Myra, who is now best known as the traditional Christian figure of Santa Claus. 3. In 1988, the site was declared a National Park by the Turkish government, delivering protection to its significant archaeological remains. 4. Patara possessed a large harbor. Its harbor is mentioned by a number of ancient authors including Strabo and Pausanias. As the harbor slowly silted up, shifting sands prevented harbor access at the gulf of Patara, with many ships no longer able to enter the harbor or compelled to reach Myra's in the nearby Lycian city of Andriake by the end of the 4th century AD. 5. An impressive amphitheater was constructed in Patara during the Roman period with a seating capacity of 5,000 to 10,000 people. 6. Patara was one of the major pilgrimage sites of the ancient world, due to its strong spiritual beliefs. There were a number of temples to various gods in the city, including temples to Apollo and Artemis. Patara was also considered a significant center for healing practices, and was known for its oracles and mystery religions. 7. Coins bearing the image of Gyananda have been found at Patara. A temple dedicated to him has also been discovered at the site. 8. The city was sacked by an Arab raid in the 8th century AD, and subsequently abandoned. Its harbor is now completely silted up. One of the historical monuments of Turkey, it tells the story of a bygone era