Magnificent view down to the lowlands

The ancient city of Termessos is located about 35 km north-west of Antalya on the steep southern slopes of Mount Güllük Dagi in the middle of a nature reserve (there is a fee to enter).

Termessos was founded by the Pisidians, a warlike hill tribe of Anatolian origin. The location at an altitude of 1.000 m made the city almost impregnable: both the Persians and Alexander the Great failed to conquer it. Only the Romans forced the well-fortified Termessos to its knees.

Anyone who drives up the serpentines by car and then accepts the half-hour walk on stony ground will be rewarded with a magnificent view. The view extends over the Taurus Mountains to the lowlands of Antalya - a sensational setting for the theater that can seat around 4.000 people and, incidentally, the most important sight of Termessos. In addition, the remains of the Corinthian temple and sarcophagi, cisterns, rock tombs, the gymnasion and the agora can be visited.

Please note: Those who are good on foot can climb the ridge and enjoy an even more impressive view of Termessos and the surrounding area. In any case, visitors to Termessos should wear sturdy shoes and – especially in summer – take enough drinks with them. Since Termessos is not so well known, you will not find the usual catering for tourists here. However, a toilet was thought of at the parking lot. Those who come here during the cooler seasons should think about warm, windproof clothing.