Aspendos

Another intriguing historical place located in the Pamphylian plain is Aspendos. Situated 47 km east of Antalya and 37 km west of Side it is situated near the Belkis village. Not too far from the Mediterranean shore either, the Köprü Çayi stream runs beside this ancient city.

If vacation means action, adventure and exploration for you and not just lazing by the beach or the swimming pool, Aspendos certainly lives up to it.

Aspendos is in existence from the 5th century B.C. and was built during the reign of Marcus Aurelius (2nd century B.C.) by a renowned architect known by the name of Zenon. A parallel historical account shows that the city was actually built in the 13th century B.C. by Mopsus. However by the 6th century it came under Lydian rule but was soon conquered by the Persian king Cyrus. Two centuries later Alexander the Great occupied this city but later with the Romans rising in power, Aspendos became inclined to Rome. In fact, it was a major port city during the Roman supremacy with Koprucay acting as the channel for conveyance. Records show that it was under the Seljuk control soon after.

Summer is not a good option to visit Aspendos, as it is too crowded. However, summer also hosts the Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival held at the ancient theater. These festivals take place between mid-June and mid-August.

Antalya is the best possible base from, which you could travel to Aspendos. The whole journey will take around 50min and you could either hire a car or take a guided tour. If you are driving down to Aspendos take the highway from Antalya towards Sillyon and after crossing Sillyon travel for 12km, turn left and stay on the road for another 5 kms.

Another way is to travel on the Antalya-Alanya highway and travel towards Serik. After crossing Serik you take to the north direction and travel for 4km.


source: turkeyforyou.com