Overview:

Olympos Ruins is an ancient archaeological site located in the Antalya province of southern Turkey. It is situated on the terraced southern slopes of Mt. Tahtali, about 40 km (24.8 miles) south of Antalya and 85 km (52.8 miles) west of Side. The ruins include the remains of the Temple of Zeus Olympios, the Olympos Beycik ancient city, the necropolis and Lycian rock tombs. It is believed that the cult of Olympos has been practiced here since the 2nd century BC. The Olympos Ruins are believed to have been part of the ancient port city of Olympos, which, according to Homer, was founded by Heracles on his return from Troy. Historians believe that Olympos was first inhabited by the Lycians before coming under the control of the Romans around the 1st century AD. The site was destroyed by a series of violent earthquakes around 675 AD and is now an attractive tourist destination. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Turkey
Prominent Features:

1. Ruins of the Temple of Zeus Olympos – The most prominent feature of the Olympos ruins is the remains of the ancient Temple of Zeus Olympos. This 10th-century BC temple complex was once a major pilgrimage site. The four remaining columns of the temple are incredibly well preserved and are a testament to the incredible skill of the ancient builders. 2. Beşka Mağaralar - The ruins of the Beşka Mağaralar, or Five Caves, are located nearby the Temple of Zeus Olympos. These caves date back 2000 years, and provided shelter and a place of worship to the people of Lycia. They remain a popular pilgrimage spot for modern-day travelers. 3. Chimera - Also known as “the burning beast,” the Chimera is an iconic symbol of the Olympos ruins. This mythological creature, thought to have been composed of a lion, goat, and snake, was said to have lived on the nearby Mt. Chimaera. The remains of the mountain still burn to this day as a result of natural gas emissions. 4. Treasures of Olympos - The ruins of Olympos are home to many ancient artifacts and treasures. Many of these artifacts, including sculptures and pottery, can be seen in the Olympos Archaeological Museum. 5. Lycian Rock Tombs – Throughout the ruins of Olympos, visitors can see the remains of the elaborate Lycian rock tombs carved directly into the cliffs. These tombs are believed to have been the final resting places of the rulers of Lycia in the ancient world. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Turkey.

History:

The ancient city of Olympos, which is located in southernmost Turkey in the popular tourist destination of Antalya, has a long and varied history. The city dates back to the 4th century BC when it was first founded by inhabitants of the nearby Lycian city of Phaselis. According to local legend, it was founded by Heracles and named for the mountain of Olympia, the birthplace of the gods. Olympos quickly became a trading center and developed into an important port, trading with nearby regions as well as the wider Mediterranean. Its position at the mouth of the Xanthus river gave it a protected harbor, and it soon attracted merchants from Greece, Egypt, and the Near East. This established a vibrant cultural melting pot in the area, with influences from a variety of civilizations. During the Hellenistic period, Olympos fell under the control of nearby Rhodes. It became a great seat of power and wealth, with many fine buildings and luxurious houses. It was particularly renowned for its healing hot springs, which were admired by travelers from all over the world. The beautiful view of Mt. Olympos, with its mythical past, also attracted poets, artists, and adventurers from all over the world. The city was eventually conquered by the Romans in 74 BC and was incorporated into the Roman province of Lycia. It continued to thrive but was eventually abandoned after an earthquake in the 2nd century AD. Today, the ruins of Olympos remain a popular tourist destination, offering stunning views and a glimpse into its colorful and mysterious past. Visit one of the famous monuments of Turkey with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Olympos was once one of the most important cities in the region dating back to the 2nd century BC. 2. The ruins of Olympos contain many ancient artifacts, including a temple dedicated to the ancient God Helios. 3. The ruins are surrounded by lush vegetation and surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea. 4. The Olympos Valley is home to the legendary Chimaera, a creature of Greek mythology which spewed burning gases from its mouth, inspiring the term “eternal flame.” 5. During excavations, researchers discovered game pieces from an ancient board game called “ludus latrunculorum,” suggesting that the people of Olympos were accomplished players. 6. People of the nearby village of Çıralı have kept the ruins alive by re-enacting ancient funeral rituals, such as the carrying of an urn on a “funeral bier” (a wooden pole) to the sacred site. 7. The site also has a natural Kumluk Beach that is accessible via cable car, and offers visitors spectacular views of the ruins and the Mediterranean. One of the historical monuments of Turkey, it tells the story of a bygone era