Phaselis: A Peak at Antiquity

What is Phaselis?

Phaselis is an ancient Lycian city in the province of Antalya in Turkey. It is located between the Bey Mountains and the forests of Olympos National Park, 16 km west of the touristic city of Kemer and on the 57th kilometre of the Antalya–Kumluca highway. Phaselis and other ancient towns around the shore can also be accessed from the sea by daily yacht tours. The city was founded by the Rhodians in 700 BC. Because of its location on an isthmus separating two harbours, it became the most important harbour city of eastern Lycia and an important center of commerce between Greece, Asia, Egypt, and Phoenicia, although it did not belong to the Lycian League. The city was captured by Persians after they conquered Asia Minor, and was later captured by Alexander the Great. After the death of Alexander, the city remained in Egyptian hands from 209 BC to 197 BC, under the dynasty of Ptolemaios, and with the conclusion of the Apamea treaty, was handed over to the Kingdom of Rhodes, together with the other cities of Lycia. From 190 BC to 160 BC it remained under Rhodeian hegemony, but after 160 BC it was absorbed into the Lycian confederacy under Roman rule. Phaselis, like Olympos, was under constant threat from pirates in the 1st century BC, and the city was even taken over by the pirate Zekenites for a period until his defeat by the Romans. In 42 BC Brutus had the city linked to Rome. In the Byzantine period, the city became a bishopric, although in the 3rd century AD, its convenient harbor had fallen under the threat of pirates once again. So it began to lose importance, suffering further losses at the hands of Arab ships, until totally impoverished in the 11th century AD. There was a temple of Athene at Phaselis, where the lance of Achilles was exhibited. It was the birthplace of the poet and orator Theodectes. It was also renowned for its roses, from which the essence was extracted. Today, the site is an open-air museum and quite well-preserved, showing the original Roman layout, complete with a double harbor. Among the interesting ruins are a theater, aqueducts, agora, baths, and the pavement of a main street lined with columns. The ruins that are visible today are the remains of the Roman era. It is one of the most picturesque ancient cities in Turkey, mainly because of its beautiful location combining the greenery of the forest and the brilliant blue of the Mediterranean sea.

How do you get to Phaselis?

Getting to Phaselis, Turkey, depends on your initial location. By Air: The closest airport to Phaselis is Antalya Airport. There are many international and domestic flights to Antalya from major cities around the world. Once you reach the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Phaselis. The distance is about 57 kilometers and it takes around 1 hour to reach Phaselis by car from Antalya airport. By Bus: From Antalya’s bus station, you can take buses to Kemer and get off at the Phaselis stop. Buses depart from Antalya to Kemer every half an hour. After getting off the bus, you will have to walk about 1 km to reach the ruins. By Car: If you are coming from Antalya, take the D400 highway west towards Kumluca and drive for about an hour. Look out for signs for Phaselis and turn left off the main road. If you’re driving from Kemer, Phaselis is about a 15-minute drive east. There’s a car park at the entrance to the site. By Boat: During the summer months, daily boat tours from Kemer can also take you to Phaselis. The city is located beautifully on the sea, so arriving by boat can be a scenic and memorable experience.

When is the best time to visit Phaselis?

The best time to visit Phaselis, Turkey, depends largely on what you’re looking for in your holiday. If you’re interested in exploring the ancient ruins and want comfortable weather, the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are excellent times to visit. The temperatures are typically mild during these times, and the crowds are usually thinner than in the peak summer months. For beach lovers and those who enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and other water activities, the summer months (June through August) are ideal. The Mediterranean Sea is warm, and the weather is typically hot and sunny. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so the site can be quite crowded, and prices for accommodations can be higher. Winter (December through February) is typically the off-peak season. While the weather is cooler and there can be some rainfall, it’s usually mild compared to many other regions, and you can still enjoy sightseeing and outdoor activities. Plus, there will be fewer tourists and lower prices.

What is the history of Phaselis?

Phaselis is an ancient Lycian city in the province of Antalya in Turkey. Its history spans over a thousand years and it was a significant location in antiquity due to its three separate harbors and position on a peninsula. The city was founded by colonists from Rhodes in the 7th century BC and was a thriving port city. It became a major center for commerce, especially the export of rose oil and the lumber from the surrounding forests. In the 6th century BC, it was captured by the Persians, but regained independence after the defeat of the Persians by Alexander the Great in 334 BC. Alexander is said to have spent the winter in Phaselis, where he used the city’s well-sheltered harbours to rest and prepare his forces. After the death of Alexander, Phaselis became part of the Kingdom of Pergamon, and later it was incorporated into the Roman Empire. During the Roman period, Phaselis enjoyed a period of wealth and prosperity due to trade. Its decline began in the 3rd century AD when harbor began to silt up due to deforestation and the city was raided by Arab ships. In the Byzantine era, the city became a bishopric and was even visited by the famed Arab traveler Ibn Battuta in the 14th century. But by the time of the Ottoman Empire, the city was largely abandoned and forgotten. Today, Phaselis is an archaeological site and is protected by the Turkish government. Visitors can see the ruins of the city’s aqueduct, market place, Roman baths, and theater, as well as numerous sarcophagi and the remains of the ancient city walls.

What is Phaselis famous for?

Phaselis, though not as famous as other ancient cities, still holds significant historical importance and has its own share of ‘firsts’ and greatest moments. Early Maritime Trade Center: Phaselis is noteworthy as one of the first major maritime trade centers in the region. Due to its three harbors and strategic location, it became a significant hub for commerce, especially in the export of rose oil and timber. Winter Home of Alexander the Great: Perhaps the most famous moment in Phaselis’s history is when it served as the winter quarters for Alexander the Great in 334 BC, after he defeated the Persians. This marked a significant moment in the city’s history, bringing it under the control of the influential leader. Impressive Architecture: Despite its decline and eventual abandonment, the city’s ruins showcase some of the greatest examples of Roman and Greek architecture, such as its aqueduct, theater, and Roman baths. Natural Beauty: The natural beauty of Phaselis is also a highlight. The city is surrounded by a beautiful national park, and the ruins are along the coast, providing sea views. The combination of ancient ruins and natural beauty makes Phaselis a unique place to visit.

What can you see at Phaselis?

Phaselis is a city of ancient ruins, each with a rich historical background. Theatre: One of the key attractions of Phaselis is its ancient theatre. This is a typical Roman theatre that would have been used for plays, musical performances, and other public spectacles. It’s evidence of the city’s cultural vibrancy in its heyday. Aqueduct: The aqueduct of Phaselis is another significant historical site. This construction is evidence of the advanced engineering skills of the Romans and was used to transport water from the mountains into the city. The Agoras: There are two agoras (marketplaces) in Phaselis, both of which played a significant role in the city’s bustling commercial life. The ruins give visitors a glimpse into the day-to-day activities of the city’s past inhabitants. Baths: The remains of the city’s baths reflect the Roman tradition of public bathing, a social activity that was an integral part of daily life. Harbours: Phaselis has three harbours – the Northern Harbour, the Battle Harbour, and the Protected (Sun) Harbour. These were crucial for the city’s trading activities. Main Street: The main street of Phaselis, lined with shops and houses, is well-preserved and provides a fascinating look into the past. Ruins of the Byzantine Basilica: On the northern side of the city, you’ll find the ruins of a Byzantine Basilica. Although it’s in ruins, some parts of the walls and the apse still remain.

Who are the most famous people in the history of Phaselis?

Phaselis, located on the southern coast of modern-day Turkey, was a significant port city in the ancient times, playing host to Persian, Greek, and Roman civilizations over the centuries. However, it’s difficult to single out one particular individual as being the most famous in the city’s history. This is because, unlike cities such as Athens (Socrates, Plato) or Rome (Julius Caesar, Augustus), Phaselis is not commonly associated with specific famous historical figures in the same way. That being said, according to legend, the famous Greek hero Bellerophon, aided by his winged horse Pegasus, is said to have slain the fire-breathing monster Chimera near Phaselis. Alexander the Great also used Phaselis as a base during his campaign against the Persians. While the city may not have been the birthplace or home of a globally renowned historical figure, the collective influence of the various civilizations that inhabited or controlled it have undoubtedly left their mark, making Phaselis a rich archaeological and historical site today.

What are the best things to do in Phaselis?

Here are 15 recommended things to do in and around Phaselis:

Visit the Three Harbors: Phaselis was known for its three separate harbors – the Northern, the Battle, and the Southern Harbors. Walking around these ancient ports can be quite the experience.
Explore the Ancient Ruins: Discover the various ruins scattered around the city, including the aqueduct, the theater, the Agora, and the baths.
Walk along the Main Street: This ancient road, once lined with shops and Roman houses, connects the two main harbors.
Visit the Roman Theater: Although smaller than many other Roman theaters, it’s still a fascinating site and offers a glimpse into the city’s past.
Enjoy a Picnic: The site is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, and there are plenty of spots for a relaxing picnic.
Take a Swim: The beautiful Mediterranean beaches are close by, so take a dip in the sea if the weather permits.
Visit the Phaselis Museum: While it’s a small museum, it offers more insights into the history of the city.
Photography: The combination of ancient ruins, forests, and the sea make Phaselis a great spot for photography.
Visit the Hadrian’s Gate: One of the remaining city gates, named after the Roman Emperor Hadrian.
Enjoy the Natural Beauty: The area around Phaselis is part of a national park, so there’s plenty of nature to enjoy.
Explore Nearby Beaches: Apart from the beaches at Phaselis, there are several other beautiful beaches in the area.
Try Local Cuisine: While there are no restaurants on the archaeological site itself, there are many located nearby, where you can try local Turkish cuisine.
Go for a Hike: The surrounding area, with its mountains and forests, offers plenty of hiking opportunities.
Sunset or Sunrise: Witness a sunrise or a sunset over the beautiful ruins for a truly memorable experience.
Visit Nearby Antalya: If you have more time, the city of Antalya is not far away and is worth a visit. It has a beautiful old town, stunning waterfalls, and a local culture.

Other places to visit in the Mediterranean Region

Side — Side is a popular resort town located on the southern coast of Turkey, in the Antalya Province.
Sunken City Ruins of Simena, Kekova — A place to visit in Demre, Antalya, Turkey.

Frequently asked questions about Phaselis

What is Phaselis known for?

When is the best time to visit Phaselis?

The best time to visit Phaselis, Turkey, depends largely on what you’re looking for in your holiday.

What is Phaselis?

What is the history of Phaselis?

Who are the most famous people in the history of Phaselis?

The best Phaselis Tours

Here are some recommended tour options: Phaselis Boat Tour: Enjoy a boat tour from Antalya that takes you to the beautiful beaches and bays of Phaselis, including the ruins. You can swim in the turquoise waters, enjoy a BBQ lunch on the boat, and explore the ancient city. Phaselis and Olympos Day Trip: This tour offers a chance to visit two significant ancient sites in one day. After exploring the ruins at Phaselis, the tour takes you to Olympos, another ancient city nearby, in a deep valley. Phaselis and Tahtalı Mountain Tour: After visiting Phaselis, this tour takes you on a cable car ride to the top of Tahtalı Mountain, offering views of the Mediterranean and the surrounding landscape. Phaselis Trekking Tour: For those who love to be active, this tour combines historical exploration with a trek in the beautiful nature surrounding Phaselis. Private Guided Tour of Phaselis: Hire a private guide to get a personalized tour of Phaselis. A knowledgeable guide can provide deeper insight into the history and significance of the ruins. Phaselis and Three Islands Boat Tour: This tour gives you the opportunity to swim and snorkel in three beautiful bays near Phaselis, and also explore the ruins of Phaselis.

How many harbours did Phaselis have?

Phaselis is said to have been founded by Rhodian colonists in the 7th century BC and has three harbours. (Ministry of Culture and Tourism — Kültür Portalı)

Then one comes to Phaselis, with three harbours, a city of note, and to a lake.
— Strabo, Geography 14.3.9

Current status: What survives today is mostly Roman and Byzantine-period remains.