Located in the Kumluca district of Antalya - only 105 km from our hotel - the ancient city of Olympos is one of the rare places where history, nature and mythology are intertwined. Olympos is not only an ancient city, but also a unique natural wealth and a mythological world. Olympos, one of the most important cities of the Lycia region, bears the traces of civilisations such as Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman throughout history. Today, it offers visitors a fascinating experience with both its archaeological ruins and natural charms.
The History of Olympos
The history of Olympos dates back to the 2nd century B.C. where it occupied an important place in the Lycian Union. This city, which was a major trade centre during the ancient Greek and Roman periods, had a strategic importance due to its location at the intersection of both sea and land routes. The city became a highly developed settlement during the Roman Empire. Olympos is also known as a port city and was known for its maritime activities in ancient times. In addition, the people of the city worshipped important gods and goddesses such as Aphrodite and temples were dedicated to Zeus.
Olympos and Mythology
Olympos has great mythological significance. In Greek mythology, there are numerous stories linking the name of Olympos with Mount Olympus, the mythical mountain of Zeus. The fact that Olympos is considered the home of the gods has given this ancient city a mystical aura. The mythological richness combined with the history of Olympos gives a different meaning to the ruins of the city.
The Buildings and Ruins of the Ancient City of Olympos
Olympos is famous for its ancient ruins, which are well preserved today. Among the historical buildings of the city, elevated structures such as seesaws, baths, large basilicas, temples and megaron houses stand out. The most remarkable structures of the Ancient City of Olympos are as follows:
1. The Gate and Walls of the Ancient City
Olympos is surrounded by city walls. The ancient city gate marks the point of entry to the city. When you pass through here and enter the city, you will feel the traces of history on your feet as you walk through the roads and streets made of old stones.
2. The Harbour and Necropolis
The harbour of Olympos was once the crossroads of important trade routes. Today, one can still observe parts of the old harbour and residential areas next to the sea. One of the most remarkable places of Olympos is the necropolis, the cemetery. There are many tunnel tombs and ancient sarcophagi in the rocky area around the city. These burial sites reflect the rich past and settlement culture of the region.
3. The Roman Baths
The remains of Roman baths in Olympos are quite impressive. These baths offer important clues about the daily life of the period and reveal the bath culture that was a part of the social life of the Roman people. The baths were used not only for cleaning but also as an area for socialising.
4. The Temples and the Temple of Aphrodite
Among the religious buildings of Olympos, the Temple of Aphrodite is one of the most remarkable. The city is also famous for its temples dedicated to Zeus and structures associated with the goddess Artemis. These structures show how important the religious life of Olympos was and the devotion of the people of the city to the gods.
5. The Theatre
There are also the ruins of an ancient theatre in Olympos. Olympos Theatre was one of the centres of the social and cultural life of the city. This theatre, one of the structures of the Roman period, was used for plays, festivals and religious ceremonies in ancient times. Today, the theatre area is still standing and is used for many cultural events.
Yanartas (Chimaera) – The Legendary Flames
It is not only the ancient ruins of Olympos that are of great importance, but also its natural riches. Yanartas, located near the city, is one of the most interesting and impressive natural formations of the region. Yanartas are natural fire pits formed by the natural methane gases that constantly come out of the underground and ignite on the rocks. This natural wonder was considered to be the place where the legendary creature known as Chimaera lived in ancient times and burned with its fire. In Greek mythology, Chimaera was a terrifying creature with the head of a lion, the body of a goat and the tail of a snake. This natural phenomenon not only gave Olympos a mythological meaning but also transformed the area into a unique visual feast.
The Natural Charms of Olympos
Olympos is famous not only for its ancient ruins but also for its natural beauty. The Olympos Coast offers a natural paradise with its long fine sandy beach and turquoise sea. The Olympos National Park also offers another natural area to explore with its rich vegetation and diverse wildlife. This area is very popular for outdoor activities such as nature walks, bird watching and photography.
How to reach Olympos?
It is possible to reach Olympos by going to Kumluca district from Antalya city centre and following the signs directing to Olympos. The region can be reached in about 1.5-2 hours by car from Antalya. It is also very easy to reach Olympos beach, which is connected to Olympos.
The Ancient City of Olympos, located in the Kumluca district of Antalya - only 105 km away from our hotel - is one of the rare places where history, nature and mythology are intertwined.
