It’s time to admit it; we have a terrible weak spot for mosaic floors. And during our visit to Arykanda, we were happy to see they weren’t covered with a protective shield, as is the case in most places. In fact, despite the ongoing excavations since 1971, large parts of this stretched-out site, are still relatively untouched.

This means you get to uncover mosaics yourself if you look carefully enough. We are quite confident plenty is still hidden under the grass field and those mountain slopes! Still, even with that knowledge in mind, it is fair to say that Arykanda (or Arycanda) is a spectacular place to visit.

Bath Complex

WHAT IS ARYKANDA?

Arykanda’s name indicates this site has Anatolian roots because of the ‘-and’ ending. (which makes us wonder about Cadianda or Kadyanda) Arykanda, which appropriately means the place next to the big rock, dates back to 2BC, making it one of the oldest Lycian sites. It was built on a mountain slope overlooking a beautiful valley. Visiting the site means you’ll have some steep paths to climb if you want to see all that Arykanda has to offer, as the ruins are spread over five terraces.

Visiting Arykanda in November meant we had the place entirely to ourselves, one of the perks of Turkey off-season. That being said, we believe it is fair to assume that the site isn’t overrun by tourists during busier times of the year either, at least if the size of the car park is an indication.

Gymnasium And Eastern Necropolis

BATH COMPLEX

Our tour of Arykanda starts with its most distinct building: the Bath complex situated on the lower terrace and one of the first buildings that strike the eye upon arrival. It is the largest one in Lycia, and still relatively intact. Its beautiful arches are an impressive sight, and the inside of the baths is undeniably fascinating.

Front Of The Bath Complex

Adjacent to the baths, you’ll find the Gymnasium which nowadays is not much more than a grass field hiding what must be an impressive mosaic floor and the remains of a massive entrance door.

The Stunning Bath Complex

NECROPOLIS

There are two Necropolises in Arykanda. The western Necropolis features some typical Lycian rock tombs and can be seen along the main road from Finike to Elmalı before you drive up to the site. The eastern Necropolis just behind the bath complex is an extraordinary collection of monumental tombs.

You’ll see temple tombs next to sarcophagi, but also majestic barrel-vaulted tombs. The scenery is mindblowing, especially because you’re overlooking the baths and Gymnasium below, as well as the valley underneath.

Detail Of A Monumental Tomb On The Eastern Necropolis

4TH-CENTURY VILLA

The ruins of this impressive villa haven’t been excavated until recent years. The villa with eight rooms and two floors belonged to an aristocrat, according to the head of the Turkish archaeology team in charge of the excavations at Arykanda. The richly decorated villa with mosaic floors, pillars, and a pool has an impressive view.

THE STATE AGORA

The State Agora must have been a buzzing place back in the days. Nowadays, it is a place of serenity with a gorgeous tree at the center. It is just above the Agora, on the path leading to the Odeon, that we suddenly noticed we were actually walking on a mosaic floor. While it was hardly noticeable at first, once you start paying attention to it, you realize the whole area must be a mosaic floor. Fascinating!

ODEON

You access the Odeon through one of the three portals just above the State Agora. It is said to have been a very stylish construction. Part of the seats underwent a sad attempt to restore them with travertine. Still, while the orchestra has gone, nature runs the show now, and a spectacular one, if you ask us!

The Odeon With The Partially Restored Seats

Uncovering Mosaics!

THEATRE

The Theatre lies just above the Odeon and is in an amazing state of preservation. The views from any of the 20 rows of seats are breathtaking. Interestingly, you can’t see the theatre from below.

STADIUM

The Stadium is located above the Theatre, and like the Theatre can’t be seen from below. Like its smaller counterpart in Cadianda, it is a longish running track with seats on one side.

The Stadium Just Above The Theatre

COMMERCIAL AGORA

You reach the Commercial Agora from the Theatre or the Stadium. This part of the site was largely inaccessible at the time of our visit, as was the Bouleuterion further to the northwest.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR YOUR VISIT

You’ll find Arykanda along the Finike – Elmalı road. The site is easily accessible by car, though parking space is limited. Sources mention an entrance fee, but there was nobody at the booth during our visit in November. Should you want to visit Arykanda using public transport, check out your options here.

There are no other facilities at Arykanda, so make sure to bring along food and plenty of water. 

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