Arykanda Ancient City is an ancient treasure along the Lycian Way, located in Antalya at the foot of the Şahinkaya cliff. This ancient site takes you back in time with its broad terraces, centuries-old ruins, and pine-scented air. If you like history and adventure, Arykanda is a must-see destination on your next trip to Turkey.
The city is located south of the Bey Mountains, at the foot of the high cliff known as Şahinkaya, which creates a wall-like barrier with the settlement to the north. The Luwian people gave the city the name Arykawanda, meaning “place next to the high cliff,” to reflect its location. The name Arykawanda subsequently became Arykanda. Without further ado, let us tour Arykanda Ancient City and discover some of its beauty!
Table of Contents
Historical Background
Although it is known that the history of Arykanda Ancient City dates back much further, the oldest ruins discovered in the settlement are the rock tombs and the Temple of Helios, dating back to the 4th century BC. The city, which first came under Persian rule, gained its freedom during the time of Alexander the Great. After his death, the city lived under the rule of different states, and in the 2nd century BC, it became a member of the Lycian League and minted coins in its own name.
Due to its location and fertile water resources, Arykanda was considered a safe place to stay during the Roman Period and experienced its brightest period in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. The city, which was inhabited until the great fire during the reign of Emperor Theodosius II in 435 AD, gradually became poorer after the earthquakes it suffered and lost its former glory in the 8th century AD.
Key Attractions
Arranged in stepped terraces due to its location, Arykanda is an impressive city with its historical structures as well as its panoramic view of the entire valley. Arykanda built its city on terraces that matched the land structure. The sloping land in the acropolis arranges the streets with stairs, just like the rest of the city.
The Trade Agora
The trade agora is located on a high terrace south of the Acropolis. It has twelve stores and homes owned by rich local residents. There is a large two-phase cistern to the west of the agora. On the upper terrace to the north of the agora, from east to west, are the houses, the Temple of Helios, and the Bouleuterion.
Temple of Helios
The construction of the sanctuary for the sun god Helios is believed to have occurred toward the end of the 4th century. Designed in the Dorian order, the temple remained standing until the earthquake of 141 AD.
Bouleuterion
The construction of the Bouleuterion (parliament building) started in the 2nd century BC. Cuts in the bedrock formed the cavea (sitting area) and part of the structure’s walls. The structure carved half of its cavea down to the orchestra level, transforming this rectangular area into a three-nave hall with two rows of columns.
The Stadium
Ancient cities established stadiums to keep their armies strong and ready for potential enemy threats. In addition to serving this general purpose, the Stadium of Arykanda also possesses a distinctive style. The stadium in Arykanda holds significant importance due to its Doric-style pedimented facade, which features eight niches located at the west end, north of the tribunalis. This area was dedicated to important figures such as Hermes, Hercules, and Apollon, giving it a religious function.
Baths of Arykanda
Arykanda features six ancient baths, each reflecting the architectural styles of their respective periods:
Great Bath
Built during the Roman period (1st century AD).
Monumental in size but later reduced during the Late Antique period.
Follows a simple row-type plan.
Slope Bath
Constructed in the Roman period.
Features a simple row-type plan.
Nal Tepesi Bath
Late Antique structure.
Built with a parallel row-type plan.
Inscribed House Bath
Late Antique structure with a parallel row-type plan.
Vth Bath
Late Antique structure.
Follows a simple row-type plan.
VIth Bath
Late Antique structure.
Also follows a simple row-type plan.
All these baths exemplify the row-type plan typical of their time, reflecting both Roman and Late Antique influences. The oldest baths are the Great Bath and Slope Bath, dating back to the Roman period, with the others constructed later.
Rock Tombs
Rock tombs in Turkey, unique to Anatolia, are widely visible in the Lycian region. These monumental tombs in the style of temples belonged to the wealthy people of the city.
You can see Medusa’s head carved on the sarcophagi in the Ancient City of Arykanda. People believed that the snake-haired Gorgon guarded the graves.
Theater of Arykanda
The Theater of Arykanda was built during the late Hellenistic period and the early Roman Imperial period during the reign of Augustus. Partially carved into the rock and partly built with stone walls, the theater boasts 20 rows of seats that cascade down the hillside like ancient steps. Imagine watching a performance here, with the excellent acoustics of an ancient theater and the fresh odor of pine trees that the soft breeze brings.
There is a large tree in the sitting area, which is damaging the seats. Professor Cevdet Bayburtluoğlu, the site director, interfered during the excavations and said, “If the tree falls, I can replace those four damaged rows in one day, but we will not be able to grow this tree even after 100 years.”
Churches of Arykanda
The first church built in the city was a three-aisled basilica church with a baptistery, built on the area created by the demolition of some monumental tombs in the Eastern Necropolis. Later, they built the second church just north of Pierus’ residence. The findings reveal that a great fire between 435 and 450 AD destroyed this three-aisled basilica church with an atrium.
Visiting Tips
On your way to Arykanda, take a moment to admire the historic Kırkkemer Bridge, one of the few Roman bridges still standing. Along the way, you’ll see Lycian-style rock tombs in Turkey, a witness to the area’s rich architectural history. That’s why the locals refer to the place as an ‘endless cemetery.’
Seeing the history of a gorgeous Lycian city isn’t the only enjoyable feature of visiting Arykanda Ancient City.
Arykanda also presents its visitors with a spectacular and endemic natural environment. You can explore the ancient city, surrounded by pine and cedar trees. Take a break under these trees whenever you feel fatigued from walking up and down the city’s terraces.
Travel Pro Tips
- Though the pine trees provide shade, the climb may be exhausting.
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Remember to pack drinks.
Visiting Hours and Entrance Fee
Visitors to Arykanda Ancient City are welcome daily from 08:00 AM until 7:00 PM. The entrance to the ruins is free.
How to Visit Arykanda Ancient City from Antalya?
It is possible to reach Finike and then Arykanda with a 1.5-hour journey from Antalya city center. If you have a private vehicle, you can easily reach the ancient city by following the D400 highway from Antalya city center towards Kumluca and following the signs for Arykanda via Finike. The ancient city has parking and won’t cause problems.
If you wish to get to Arykanda from Antalya using public transportation, you should first arrive in Finike, where buses depart from the Antalya bus station. This journey takes about 2 hours. You can continue from Finike, Antalya to Arykanda by taxi.
Conclusion
Arykanda Ancient City is a great spot for anyone looking to experience a mix of history, culture, and stunning natural scenery. The city showcases its ancient theaters and agoras, along with the peacefulness of its pine-covered terraces, highlighting the glory of past civilizations and the enduring spirit of Lycian heritage.
Whether you’re fascinated by architectural wonders, intrigued by mythology, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, the Ancient City of Arykanda promises an unforgettable experience. Each step you take among Arykanda’s terraces is a journey through history—and it’s a place I personally found impossible to leave without feeling connected to the ancient world. Add Arykanda, Turkey to your itinerary when traveling along the Lycian Way, and don’t forget to share your experience with us!