Arycanda Ancient City

Arycanda Ancient City

Arycanda, also known as Arykanda, is a remarkable Lycian site located on a mountain slope. The city is constructed on five ascending terraces, offering a stunning view of the valley below, making it one of Turkey's most spectacular sites. The name "Arycanda" reflects its Anatolian origin, dating back to the second millennium BC. Recently, during excavations, some of the oldest coins of Lycia (5th century BC) were discovered, and the site is still under continuous excavation.

Despite surviving through the Byzantine period, the settlement was eventually relocated to a new location south of the modern road in the 9th century. However, recent restoration and excavation work has revealed a beautifully preserved city that stands as an architectural model.

Arycanda Ancient City

The largest bath complex in Lycia, which remains almost fully preserved, is located in Bath. This structure includes a series of arches positioned next to the gymnasium on the lowest terrace.

In addition, the Agora, a spacious and flat marketplace oriented towards the south, is situated to the south of the Odeon. The eastern section of this marketplace still contains several shops, and its southern side was enclosed by a portico.

The Amphitheatre, which is in remarkable condition, was built during the 2nd century AD and consists of 20 rows of seats, divided into seven sections. Each row features holes that were used to support protective awnings.

Finally, the Odeon, constructed during the 2nd century AD, has its main entrance facing south with a triple portal. Initially, this structure featured stunning marble details, such as interior walls adorned with sculptures, tiles decorated with portraits of Emperor Hadrian, and masks.

Bath is home to several historical landmarks worth visiting. The stadium, which dates back to the Hellenistic era, is shaped like a running track measuring 106m by 17m. Only some step-like seating remains on the northern side of the stadium.

There are two necropolises, with the one at the entrance to the site being especially fascinating due to its elaborately decorated funerary monuments. The second necropolis, located in the eastern area, features rock-cut tombs as well as barrel-vaulted tombs.

The Council's meeting place, known as the Bouleuterion, is positioned on the northwest slope of the city and can be accessed via a long stoa. The structure, which is carved into a mountainside, includes rows of seats that were cut from the natural rock.

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