9 Ancient Sites and Cities You Should Visit in Turkey

Certainly the most popular and well-preserved of the archeological sites, Ephesus dates back to the 10^th century, and combines Greek, Roman, and early Christian culture. Its most famous structures are the Library of Celsus and the Temple of Artemis, as well as the nearby House of the Virgin Mary.

Discovered by German archaeologist Klaus Schmidt in 1994, Göbekli Tepe was an astounding find that completely altered what was known about prehistory. It’s believed that the temple structures were built about the 10^th millennium BCE, and therefore are the oldest example of such large-scale architecture in the world.

Another very well-preserved ancient site, Termessos is famous for its theater that looks out over the breathtaking Taurus Mountains, at an altitude of more than 1000 meters. Once a Psidian city, the site is almost entirely concealed by beautiful pine forests.

The ancient Greek city of Aphrodisias took its much-deserved place on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2017, but continues to remain quite unknown to travelers. Named after Aphrodite, the goddess of love, the site’s most stunning structure is the Temple of Aphrodite.

Many are familiar with the travertine pools of Pamukkale, but fewer are familar with the ancient city of Hierapolis nearby. Once a significant destination for its healing hot springs, it’s still possible to swim in the hot mineral waters and visit the city’s great Roman theater.

Once the capital city of the Hittite Empire, Hattusha is one of Turkey’s most important archeological sites, dating back to the Bronze Age. The remains continue to stun visitors, including one of the ancient world’s most sophisticated libraries, as well as underground tunnels, temples, and palaces.

This place was the former capital of the kingdom of Lydia, as well as an important city in the Persian Empire and a metropolis during the Roman and Byzantine eras. Sardis’ highlights include royal burial mounds, the Temple of Artemis, and a synagogue.

An ancient Greek city that once overlooked the sea from its steep slopes and terraces, Priene is famous for its significant works of Hellenistic art and architecture. Notable structures include the Temple of Athena, an agora and stoa, an assembly hall, and a well-preserved theater.

Located at the peak of Mount Nemrut, this ancient mausoleum was built by built by King Antiochus I of Commagene for himself around 63 BCE. The statues all around are truly breathtaking and were once as high as nine meters.