Sardis: The Origin of Money

What is Sardis?

Sardis (also called Sardes) was an ancient city located in what is now Turkey. The city was situated in the western part of Asia Minor, near the foot of Mount Tmolus, a rich agricultural area. It served as the capital of the ancient kingdom of Lydia. Sardis was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2025 as Sardis and the Lydian Tumuli of Bin Tepe. Sardis is notable in history and archaeology for a number of reasons: Lydia and the First Coins: Under the rule of King Croesus (561-547 BC), Lydia became famous for its wealth, in part because it was here that coinage was invented. These first coins were made of a naturally occurring mix of gold and silver called electrum. Cultural Crossroads: Sardis was a significant city in both the Persian and Roman Empires. It was a cultural crossroads with a mix of Persian, Greek, and Roman influences evident in its archaeological remains. Seven Churches of Revelation: Sardis is mentioned in the Bible in the Book of Revelation as one of the Seven Churches of Asia. The church in Sardis is criticized for its complacency and spiritual deadness despite its reputation for being alive. Archaeologically, the site is known for its well-preserved ruins, which include a Roman-era gymnasium and a synagogue, one of the oldest and largest from antiquity. The Temple of Artemis in Sardis is another significant landmark, although not as well-preserved as the Artemis Temple in Ephesus.

How do you get to Sardis?

Sardis, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Lydia, is located near the modern town of Sart in Manisa Province in Western Turkey. By Car: Sardis is about an hour drive east of Izmir. You can rent a car and drive yourself, or hire a private vehicle or taxi. By Public Transportation: You can take a train or bus to Manisa from major cities like Istanbul or Izmir, then transfer to a local minibus to Sart. Do note that public transport in the region can be infrequent and may not always be reliable. Guided Tours: Many travel companies offer day trips from Izmir or other nearby cities to Sardis, which can be a convenient option as it takes care of transportation and often includes a guide.

When is the best time to visit Sardis?

The best time to visit Sardis, like many destinations in Turkey with a Mediterranean climate, is typically during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September and October). These periods offer more moderate temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak summer months. The weather is typically warm and pleasant, ideal for outdoor exploration of the archaeological site. Additionally, you can enjoy the beauty of the landscape in these periods, with wildflowers blooming in the spring and leaves changing color in the autumn. Visiting in the summer is also possible, but temperatures can get quite high, which might not be comfortable for everyone, especially when exploring archaeological sites that lack shade. If you do visit in the summer, remember to take precautions against the heat such as wearing a hat, using sunscreen, and staying hydrated. Winter visits can be cool and rainy, which might not be ideal for exploring the outdoor ruins, but it can be an option if you prefer to avoid crowds. Be sure to check the site’s opening hours and any seasonal closures before planning your visit.

What is the history of Sardis?

Sardis, also known as Sardes, was an important ancient city and capital of the kingdom of Lydia. It is located in what is now western Turkey, near the modern town of Sart. The city’s history stretches back to at least the 12th century BC. It was ruled by a series of Lydian kings, perhaps the most famous of whom was King Croesus (or Kroisos), who reigned from 560 to 546 BC. Under Croesus, Lydia was noted for its wealth, and it was during his reign that coinage was believed to have been invented, a significant innovation in the history of world economics. Lydia and Sardis were conquered by Cyrus the Great of Persia in 546 BC. Despite this, Sardis continued to be a significant city under Persian rule. The city was captured by Alexander the Great in 334 BC and, after his death, it became part of the kingdom of Pergamon. When the kingdom of Pergamon was bequeathed to Rome in 133 BC, Sardis became part of the Roman province of Asia. Under Roman rule, the city was known for its schools of arts and crafts and was the first place where wool was dyed purple, a color associated with royalty and wealth in the ancient world. Sardis was one of the Seven Churches of Asia cited in the Book of Revelation in the Christian New Testament, indicating its significance as a center of early Christianity. In AD 17, Sardis was destroyed by an earthquake, but it was rebuilt on the same site. The city continued to be inhabited through Byzantine times and into the early Middle Ages, but it was gradually abandoned after the 14th century. Excavations of the site of ancient Sardis have been underway since the 19th century, revealing a wealth of information about the city’s rich and diverse history.

What is Sardis famous for?

Sardis, the capital of the ancient kingdom of Lydia, was renowned for a number of historical “firsts” and impressive achievements: Invention of Coinage: Sardis is credited as the place where coinage was first invented in the 7th century BC under the rule of King Alyattes. These early coins were made of electrum, a naturally occurring alloy of gold and silver. First Use of Minted Gold Coins: King Croesus, the last king of Lydia, was famed for his wealth and is thought to have introduced the first pure gold and silver coins. The Royal Road: The city was the starting point of the Persian Royal Road, which enabled communication and trade across the vast Persian Empire. This road was an important element in the empire’s administration and commerce. Significant Center of Early Christianity: Sardis is mentioned in the Bible’s Book of Revelation as one of the Seven Churches of Asia. This highlights its early significance as a center for the spread of Christianity. Artistic Innovation: Sardis was known for its arts and crafts. It was the first place to dye wool purple, an expensive and prestigious color in the ancient world. Impressive Architecture: The city had significant buildings, including the Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, a renowned gymnasium, and a large and complex synagogue demonstrating the presence of a sizable Jewish community. Sardis was indeed a city of many achievements and innovations, and its influence can be traced in many areas of Western culture and economics.

What can you see at Sardis?

Sardis, the ancient capital of Lydia, is rich in historical landmarks and ruins. Some of the most notable include: The Temple of Artemis: Once among the largest temples of the ancient world, the Temple of Artemis in Sardis is an important archaeological site. While the temple is now in ruins, it still presents a sense of its original grandeur. The Gymnasium: The Sardis Gymnasium complex, which also includes a bathhouse, was a significant social institution in the Roman era. Visitors can explore the ruins of this large building with its magnificent courtyard. The Synagogue: The Sardis Synagogue, dating back to around 200 AD, is one of the most impressive ancient synagogues ever discovered. It provides evidence of a substantial Jewish community in Sardis during Roman times. The Royal Road: Parts of the ancient Royal Road, which began in Sardis and stretched across the Persian Empire, can still be traced today. Sardis Lydian Tumuli: These are large burial mounds located on the outskirts of Sardis. They were built as monumental tombs for the Lydian elite, including possibly the famous Lydian kings. Byzantine Shops: These ruins at the south end of the agora are all that remain of a once-thriving marketplace. House of a Bronze Foundry: This archaeological site gives insight into the metalworking practices in Sardis.

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

Sardis, being the capital of the ancient kingdom of Lydia, has been home to several historical figures. The most notable among them is probably King Croesus (or Kroisos in Greek), who reigned from 560 to 547 BC. King Croesus is most famous for his wealth, and his name has become synonymous with riches (“as rich as Croesus”). Under his rule, Lydia achieved great prosperity, thanks in part to the gold from the river Pactolus, which flowed through his capital, Sardis. The expression “rich as Croesus” comes from this time, as Croesus was known for his opulence. Croesus is also noted for issuing the first true gold coins with a standard purity for general circulation. Another important historical event related to Sardis is the siege by Cyrus the Great, which led to the defeat and capture of Croesus, marking the end of the Lydian empire. However, Cyrus the Great was not a resident of Sardis.

What are the best things to do in Sardis?

Visit the Temple of Artemis: This is one of the most important landmarks in Sardis. Once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, today you can see the ruins of this once-magnificent temple.
Explore the Roman Gymnasium: This was a social center in Roman times, offering baths, a palaestra, and other amenities.
Stroll through the Sardis Synagogue: Dating back to 200 AD, this is one of the best-preserved ancient synagogues in the world. It shows the Jewish life that once existed here.
Walk the Royal Road: This was the main road in the Persian Empire, stretching from Sardis to Susa in Iran.
Discover the House of a Millionaire: An impressive Roman-era house, showing the wealth of some of Sardis’s inhabitants.
Visit the Lydian Tumuli: These burial mounds near Sardis offer insight into the funerary practices of ancient Lydians.
See the Sardis Church: An impressive Byzantine-era church located near the Temple of Artemis.
Explore the Sardis Archaeological Museum: Learn more about the history of Sardis and see artifacts from the area.
Visit the Pactolus River: This river was said to have turned everything it touched to gold.
Explore the Acropolis of Sardis: Although it’s a challenging hike, the view from the top over the Hermus valley is worth it.
Take a walk around the market and shops area: Get a feel for what daily life might have been like in ancient Sardis.
Visit the reconstructed shops: Near the gymnasium, you can see reconstructed Roman-era shops, offering a glimpse into ancient commerce.
See the Bath-Gymnasium complex: Another significant Roman public building.
Tour the Byzantine shops: Get a sense of how commerce shifted and evolved through the Byzantine era.
Hire a local guide: A guide can provide deeper insights into the history of Sardis and its landmarks. Guides are typically available at the site entrance or can be arranged through tour companies.

Other places to visit in the Aegean Coast Region

Thyateira — A place to visit in Lydia, Manisa, Turkey.
Aigai — Aigai, also known as Nemrutkale or Nemrut Kalesi in Turkish, was an ancient city and former bishopric in Aeolis, a region on the western coast of Asia Minor.
Saklikent Canyon — Saklikent Canyon is one of the most remarkable natural wonders in Turkey, located in Saklikent National Park in the southwestern part of the country.

Frequently asked questions about Sardis

What is Sardis known for?

When is the best time to visit Sardis?

What is Sardis?

What is the history of Sardis?

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

The best Sardis Tours

Taking a guided tour can greatly enhance your experience of visiting a historical site like Sardis. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll get insights into the history, culture, and significance of the sites that you may miss if visiting on your own. Full-Day Sardis Tour from Izmir: This tour typically includes visits to the Temple of Artemis, the ancient synagogue, and the Gymnasium complex. With hotel pickup and drop-off included, it’s a convenient option. Private Full-Day Tour to Sardis: For a more personalized experience, consider booking a private tour. These can often be customized to your interests and typically include transportation, a private guide, and sometimes lunch. Sardis Day Trip from Istanbul: For those based in Istanbul, it’s possible to visit Sardis on a day trip. These long but comprehensive tours usually include flights, transportation, a guide, and a visit to multiple sites in Sardis. Lydia and Sardis Day Tour: This tour not only covers Sardis but also other significant sites in the ancient region of Lydia. You might visit the ancient cities of Philadelphia and Thyatira as part of this tour. Seven Churches of Revelation Tour: For those interested in biblical history, this tour covers the Seven Churches of Revelation mentioned in the Bible, including Sardis.