Olympos Ancient City

Olympos is one of the most important ancient harbor cities on the southern coast of Antalya, ranking just after Phaselis in historical significance.
The city takes its name from Mount Tahtalı (Mount Olympos), meaning “High Mountain,” located approximately 16 kilometers north of the site.

Although its exact foundation date is unknown, Olympos is mentioned on coins minted between 167–168 BC and was one of the six cities of the Lycian League with the privilege of three voting rights.
The ruins of the ancient city are located within the boundaries of Beydağları Coastal National Park, in the Kemer district of Antalya.

What to See in Olympos Ancient City

Most of the surviving ruins are hidden within dense forest areas and date back to the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods.
The remains are located along both sides of a fast-flowing river that runs from east to west and opens into the sea.

In ancient times, the river was canalized, allowing both sides to function as harbors connected by a bridge.
Today, one pier of this ancient bridge still stands.

Near the river mouth rises a small and steep acropolis, where remnants of late-period structures can be found.
On the southern bank of the river, a small theater with Hellenistic foundations and Roman restorations is visible, although it is largely ruined.

The most monumental structure in the area is the Byzantine church, whose interior walls are decorated with frescoes.
Another important structure is the temple gate located west of the river mouth. Architectural findings indicate that it belonged to a small Ionic temple built in honor of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius (AD 172–173).

One of the most remarkable discoveries is the Sarcophagus of Captain Eudomus, uncovered during excavations conducted by the Antalya Museum.
Located in a rock niche near the river mouth, the sarcophagus is notable for its poetic inscription and the ship relief carved on its long side.

Olympos, Nature & Surroundings

Olympos and its surroundings form a 7.5-kilometer section of the famous Lycian Way hiking route.
To the east lies Çıralı, known for its pristine beach located 300 meters inland from the coast, where Caretta caretta sea turtles lay their eggs.

A few kilometers southwest of Olympos is Yanartaş (Chimaera), the legendary eternal flames that have inspired myths for centuries.

Olympos is included in the UNESCO Tentative List under the title “Ancient Cities of the Lycian Civilization” (2009).

How to Get to Olympos Ancient City

Olympos Ancient City is located in the Kemer region of Antalya and can be reached by private vehicle or public transportation.

Visitors can reach the entrance area and then continue on foot to explore the ruins.
The site is located within a protected national park area, and admission is paid.

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– Travel cancellation insurance

– Breakfast and dinner included

– Health care included

– Transfer to the airport and return to the agency

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