About Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City
Apamea, also known as Apameia (in Phrygia), is an ancient city located in what is now western Turkey. Not to be confused with Apamea in Syria, Apamea in Phrygia was an important city in the Hellenistic period and throughout the Roman and Byzantine eras.
Here are some key points about Apamea in Phrygia:
Location: The ruins of Apamea are located near the modern city of Dinar in Afyonkarahisar Province, Turkey.
History: Founded in the 3rd century BC by Antiochus I Soter, a king of the Hellenistic Seleucid Empire, the city was named after his mother, Apama. During Roman times, it was a significant city in the Roman province of Phrygia.
Attractions: The ruins of the ancient city offer a glimpse into its past, with remnants of buildings, streets, and monuments. Although the site has suffered some damage due to earthquakes throughout history, visitors can still observe the vestiges of its old glory.
Archaeology: Archaeological excavations at the site have revealed coins, inscriptions, and other artifacts that provide insight into the city’s history and culture. However, much of the ancient city still lies undiscovered.
How to get to Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City
Here are general instructions to get there:
By Air: The closest airports to Dinar are Afyon (AFY), located about 86 km away, and Denizli Cardak Airport (DNZ), approximately 120 km away. Both airports have connections to Istanbul.
By Train: You can also reach Dinar by train. Turkish State Railways (TCDD) operates train services connecting Dinar with other cities in Turkey, such as Ankara, Istanbul, and Izmir.
By Road: Dinar can be reached by road from major cities in Turkey. From Istanbul, it’s a drive of around 400 km, typically taking 4-5 hours. From Ankara, it’s around 250 km and takes about 3 hours.
What to pack for Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City
Comfortable Clothing: Choose breathable, lightweight clothing that can be layered. The temperature can vary quite a bit from day to night, so layers can help you stay comfortable. If you’re visiting in the summer, opt for light-colored clothing to reflect the sun.
Sturdy Shoes: You’ll be walking on uneven surfaces and potentially up and down hills. Hiking shoes or other sturdy, closed-toe footwear would be advisable.
Sun Protection: A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must-haves. The sun can be quite intense, and there may not be much shade available at the site.
Water and Snacks: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially in the summer. Also, pack some snacks as there might not be food vendors nearby.
Camera: You’ll want to capture the stunning views and impressive ruins.
Guide Book or Information about the Site: To fully appreciate the historical significance of what you’re seeing, it may be helpful to bring along a guidebook or have access to information about the site.
Small First Aid Kit: It’s always handy to have basic first aid items such as band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and a pain reliever.
Travel Documents: Don’t forget your necessary identification, travel documents, and any tickets or passes you may need.
Where to stay near Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City?
Here are some suggestions:
Afyonkarahisar: This city is known for its thermal baths and has a variety of accommodations from budget to luxury. It also has many historical sites and is known for its beautiful architecture.
Eskişehir: This university town is vibrant and has a range of accommodations to suit different budgets. It’s also known for its parks, museums, and nightlife.
Kütahya: This city has a rich history and is known for its ceramics industry. It has a range of accommodations from budget to high-end.
What type of climate does Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City have?
Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect throughout the year:
Spring (March to May): The weather is typically moderate and can be an ideal time to visit. There’s a chance of rainfall, especially in March and April.
Summer (June to August): The climate is usually hot and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit).
Autumn (September to November): Autumn sees cooler temperatures and can be a pleasant time to visit. Rainfall may increase towards the end of the season.
Winter (December to February): Winters are usually cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Snowfall is possible but not very common.
When is the best time to visit Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City?
The best time to visit Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City in Turkey largely depends on your personal preferences for weather and crowd sizes. Here are some general considerations:
Spring (March-May): This can be a great time to visit, as the weather is generally mild and pleasant, but not too hot. The site will likely be less crowded than in the peak summer months, and the countryside is often beautifully green and lush.
Early Summer (June-Early July): The weather is usually warm, but the extreme heat of late summer hasn’t set in yet. This can also be a good time to visit, before the tourist crowds reach their peak.
Autumn (September-November): Similar to spring, the autumn weather is typically moderate, and the summer crowds have usually thinned out by this time. The fall foliage can also add a nice touch to the scenic beauty of the area.
Winter (December-February): Winters can be cold and potentially snowy, which could limit outdoor activities and exploration. However, you’ll likely have the site largely to yourself.
The history of Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City
Apamea or Apameia (also known as Apameia Kibotos, Apameia Kibotou, or Apamea on the Orontes) was an ancient city located in Phrygia, near present-day Dinar in Turkey. It’s essential to note that there were several cities named Apamea in antiquity, and their histories can sometimes get entwined.
The city was founded by Antiochus I Soter, who was one of the successors of Alexander the Great, in the 3rd century BCE. He named the city after his mother, Apama. The city was on the Silk Road, making it an important commercial hub. It became a center of commerce, with trading goods like silk, wine, and grain.
Due to its strategic location, Apamea changed hands many times throughout history. It was under Seleucid, Roman, Byzantine, and eventually Ottoman rule. Apamea’s fortunes rose significantly during the Roman period, and it became one of the key cities in the province of Asia. During Byzantine times, it served as an important defensive point against invasions.
The city was known for its unique and large-scale buildings, including a significant stadium that was one of the largest of its kind in the ancient world. The city was also home to a notable school of philosophy and was visited by the philosopher Strabo.
However, over time, the city began to decline, especially after a series of devastating earthquakes. By the time of the Ottoman Empire, the city was largely abandoned. Today, the ruins of Apamea provide a glimpse into the rich history and grandeur of this once-flourishing city.
Famous firsts and greatest of Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City
Here are some of the most significant aspects of its history:
Founding by a Successor of Alexander the Great: Apamea was founded by Antiochus I Soter, a successor (also known as one of the Diadochi) of Alexander the Great. Its founding by such a significant historical figure lends Apamea a notable place in ancient history.
Major Trading Hub: Thanks to its location on the Silk Road, Apamea became a significant trading hub in the ancient world. Goods from the east and west flowed through the city, bringing it prosperity and cultural diversity.
Large-Scale Buildings: The city was known for its grand architecture, including a substantial stadium, which was one of the largest of its kind in the ancient world. Unfortunately, many of these structures have been lost to time, but the scale of these ruins attests to their original grandeur.
Center for Learning and Philosophy: Apamea was also home to a well-regarded school of philosophy, and it was visited by the famous philosopher Strabo.
Surviving Earthquakes and Invasions: Apamea’s history was marked by various challenges, including devastating earthquakes and invasions. Despite this, the city remained an important center for many centuries, demonstrating its resilience.
Byzantine Defense Point: During Byzantine times, it served as an essential defensive point against invasions, further emphasizing its strategic significance.
Historical places of Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City
Apamea in Phrygia is an archaeological site rich in historical significance. The following are some historical landmarks in and around the ancient city:
City Walls: While the original city walls may not be fully intact, their remnants give visitors an idea of the city’s size and defensive capabilities.
Stadium: One of the most notable features of Apamea is its large-scale stadium. Though mostly in ruins today, it once showcased the city’s wealth and influence in the ancient world.
Columns Street: Running through the center of the city, the main street is lined with columns, reflecting the grandeur of the city in its heyday.
Basilica and Cathedral: The ruins of a Byzantine Basilica and a Cathedral also exist in the city. These structures symbolize the religious history of Apamea under Byzantine rule.
Aqueduct: The ruins of an ancient Roman aqueduct can also be found here, highlighting the impressive engineering capabilities of the time.
The Synagogue: Apamea was home to one of the largest Jewish communities in Syria, and the ruins of a large, ornately decorated synagogue can be found in the city.
The Baths: Ancient Roman baths, adorned with beautiful mosaics, provide a glimpse into the city’s luxurious past.
The Great Palace: Although it is in ruins today, the Great Palace of Apamea was an architectural marvel of the ancient world.
Who is the most famous people in the history of Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City?
Apamea (Phrygia) has been a key site in ancient history but there isn’t a specific historical figure that stands out from the city. This could be due to the shifting control and dominion over this city during the periods of antiquity. It was once an important center during the Hellenistic period, then fell under Roman, Byzantine, and eventually Ottoman control.
However, it’s worth mentioning the city was supposedly named after Apama, the wife of Seleucus I Nicator, one of the generals of Alexander the Great who later established the Seleucid Empire after Alexander’s death. Though not directly from the city, the naming gives them significant historical ties to Apamea.
The 15 best things to do in Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City
- Guided Tour: Engage a local guide for a detailed tour of the site. They can provide historical context, explain the significance of different areas, and answer any questions you might have.
- Photography: Ancient sites offer wonderful opportunities for photography, so don’t forget your camera. Capture the ancient ruins, surrounding landscapes, and any local flora and fauna.
- Sketching: If you enjoy drawing or painting, bring your sketchpad and spend some time capturing the ruins in your own artistic style.
- Picnicking: If the site allows it, pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the historical surroundings. Be sure to clean up after yourself to preserve the site.
- Bird Watching: Many ancient sites are also home to unique bird species. If you’re a bird enthusiast, bring your binoculars.
- Hiking: If the terrain allows, hiking around the site can be a great way to explore and get a different perspective on the ruins.
- Exploring Nearby Attractions: If there are other historical or cultural attractions in the area, consider incorporating them into your visit.
- Reading Historical Texts: Bring along a book or articles about the history of Apamea to read on-site, providing context to the ruins around you.
- Sunrise or Sunset Viewing: Depending on the orientation of the site, it could be a fantastic place to watch the sunrise or sunset.
- Meditation: The serene, historical setting could provide a unique location for meditation or reflection.
- Archaeological Work: Some sites may offer the opportunity for visitors to participate in archaeological digs.
- Local Cuisine: Explore nearby eateries to sample local cuisine.
- Local Crafts: Look for local artisans and their crafts. This might be a good opportunity to pick up a unique souvenir.
- Cultural Activities: Look for any local festivals or events happening during your visit.
- Local Markets: Visit local markets to get a sense of the daily life and culture of the people living around the site.
What is the best places to visit in Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City?
the best places to visit would typically include:
Ruins of Ancient Structures: Depending on what has been uncovered, you might be able to see the remnants of buildings, walls, roads, or other structures.
Excavation Areas: If active excavations are taking place, it could be interesting to see archaeologists at work (from a respectful distance, of course).
Viewpoints: If the site is located in a hilly or elevated area, there might be spots that offer panoramic views of the entire site and the surrounding landscape.
Interpretive Displays: If the site has an information center or interpretive displays, these can provide valuable insights into the history of the city and the significance of the ruins you’re seeing.
The best Apamea (Phrygia) Ancient City Tours
Here are some general tips for finding a good tour:
Check with Local Tourism Offices: They can often provide recommendations for reputable tour companies or guides who specialize in local history and archaeology.
Look for Specialist Tour Companies: Some tour companies might specialize in historical and archaeological tours, offering expert guides and detailed explanations of the sites.
Consider a Private Guide: If you want a more personalized experience, consider hiring a private guide. They can tailor the tour to your interests and answer all your questions.