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Thermessos
3,444 feet above sea level, between two mountains, lies the
ancient city of Thermessos, one of the best preserved
archaeological sites in Turkey. Here you'll sit in one of the
most breathtaking open-air theaters in Turkey. Built during the
Hellenistic period, the theater has 27 rows of steps carved into
the rock and can hold up to 4,000 spectators. From the theater,
one can look out across the sea as far as Antalya. You can also
explore Thermessos' necropolis, which surrounds the city on
three sides. Here, the tombs range from those dug out of the
rock to those in the form of a sarcophagus mounted on a high
pedestal.
Before returning to the ship, you will also get the chance to
witness a carpet demonstration which shows you how some of the
finest carpets in the world are made. Here also, you will be
able to sample some of the local tea.
Departure from Hotel in the morning or afternoon.
Thermessos is located 30 km north of Antalya. It is one of the
ancient city around Antalya and ancient Psidia Region.
When we arrive to the parking area,we leave our car and walkup
to the ruins of Thermessos. The history of Thermessos goes back to
the 2000 BC and it is one of the city that Alexander the Great
couldn’t conquer.
Visit ancient theatre of Thermessos which was built on top of the
city.Enjoy magnificent view of Taurus Mountains.The site of
Thermessos is also a National Park with a rich flora and fauna.
Tour includes: Transfers, Professional Licensed Guiding
Service,Entrance Fees.
Tour excludes: Lunch .
Note: Sport shoes is required for this tour.
For your request please mail to us ;
info@bilyanagolf.com
High
in the mountains above Antalya, Thermessos - the last city on
the border of Lykia and Pamphylia- lies on a vast acropolis
surrounded by high peaks. It was a Pysidian city with such
formidable natural defences that Alexander the Great could not
capture it. Gulluk National Park (Thermessos National Park) is 4
km to the northwest of Antalya. The ancient city of Thermessos,
set inside the park, is located on a 1040 meters high plateau on
the west side of Gulluk Mountain (Solymos). You can visit the
city between 7:30 and 19:30. It is an ideal place for trekking
activities and yachting. It’s hard to find your way because of
its sophisticated and mystic ambience.
Founded by Pysidian tribe who live in the northern area of
Pamphylia, city takes the name Thermessos that comes from Lykian
Termilæ. People who live in this area were known as aggressive
warriors. Once, Thermessos warriors had captured thirty Lykian
cities. Because of some resource problems, they had to find
alternative foods. They are also interested in trade and for
this reason they need a tax organization for travels. In Homer’s
Iliad, Thermessos is a delightful place. Alexander the Great
tried to capture Thermessos with Selge tribe’s help.
Nevertheless, the natural obstacles foreclosed him. With Roman
sovereignty, the city became a special place. In addition, it’s
called as a religion centre in the Byzantium period.
Climate is
characterised by excessive summer temperatures and mild winters
(a Mediterranean type). Best time for visiting Thermessos is
between April and November. In addition, it is an interesting
place in spring with its natural sources and ancient ruins of
legends.
In the main entrance
of Gulluk National Park, it’s possible to find a section to get
more information about the area. The ruins of the city are 500
Meters away from car/bus stop. You have to pass boarding. Then
you can see a monumental portrait of Thermessos. Ancient ruins
hide in the silent embrace of virgin orchids. A few of them
still stand because of natural effects. Hellenistic theatre with
the capacity of 4000 still waits its visitors. King Street (Kral
Caddesi) divides city into the two parts. First part contains
ruins of bazaars & shops; on the other side gymnasium, temples
and government buildings stand. There is a section where you can
view from the city walls opposed to necropolis. After many
earthquakes, a few buildings in Agora such as cisterns
(northwest area)-used to storage rain waters-still standing.
Left side of this area there is an aqueduct. You can see a path
in the west side of Agora divided into the two ways. If you walk
to the left part, you’ll see a spring. According to rumours,
inhabitants believe that spring has healing affects.
Thermessos’ hard
conditions and temperature may be dangerous for your health. If
you are a smoker, you should put away your cigarettes. Be
careful when choosing your shoes & clothing. Prefer comfortable
clothes to protect yourself from the thorns and shoes such as
cross-training type. In addition, you should use cap and bring a
bottle of water with yourself. The nearest health service
available is in Antalya.
Gulluk National Park
was taken under protection by the government. You can see many
rare animal species in this paradise. It’s a great place for
people who are interested in wildlife photography. An ideal
place for trekking but be careful - you may be lost within this
beautiful side. Have a picnic. Enjoy yourself.
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