A VISIT TO THE SANCTUARY OF ZEUS LABRAUNDOS: LABRAUNDA

Did you know that concealed in the mountains close to Milas lies a piece—or rather, several pieces—of Carian history made of white marble? The Sanctuary of Zeus Labraundos is located there, and it is known as Labraunda (or Labranda, depending on the source). It sounds amazing, doesn’t it?
Yes, it is! During feasts of sacrifice, Carian pilgrims made foot pilgrimages to this isolated and holy location in remembrance of Zeus. Here are the distinctive remnants of the halls that were used as a performance space. You will not find dining facilities like this at any other historic site in Turkey.

Andron A Or Idrieus’ Andron

The Incredibly Well-Preserved Monumental Staircase

LABRAUNDA, WHERE YOU SEE ARCHAEOLOGISTS AT WORK

It is worthwhile to see the archaeological site of Labraunda. We were the only guests there, as is often the case with those undiscovered treasures in Turkey. The other individuals we’ve met were working archaeologists. Observing them at work in this setting is amazing. Sitting in the intense heat of the sun, meticulously scrubbing the marble bricks to reveal their Greek inscriptions and bring out their white colour once more.

Collecting tiny ceramic fragments in plastic containers and creating an inventory of everything. Reprising historical events and the scene that must have been magnificent. Yes, the view is a little ruined by the metal roof that was installed over a portion of the excavations. But we know exactly what it’s like to stand out in the scorching heat for a few minutes, so we understand why some situations transform this metal roof into a lifesaver.

It’s Fascinating To See The Archaeologists At Work At Labraunda

A PLACE WORTHY OF ZEUS

The scene is overwelming. It instills a sense of both humility and power in you: humility from being surrounded by such beauty, and strength from looking down at the valley and the site. Zeus Labraundos atop the globe, or that portion of it, anyway. At 600 metres above sea level, the sprawling ancient site of Labraunda provides breathtaking panoramic vistas.
The location seems peaceful now, and lore has it that this was also the case in the daylight in the past. The hallowed grounds would only accept thousands of individuals ready to make their sacrifice at the altar and communicate with Zeus through oracular eels during the festivities hosted at Labraunda. (Yes, you are correct!)

 WHY YOU SHOULD VISIT LABRAUNDA

If you are limited to a few days in Turkey, you will likely want to spend them exploring Istanbul, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, and Ephesus, among other great destinations that have managed to retain their unique identities and become popular tourist destinations. Make a diversion to Labraunda if you have extra time to spend in Turkey and you like to travel to less-traveled areas.
It is readily linked with a trip to Miletus or Bafa Gölü, where you can unwind at Kapıkırı beach under a tree. You may get a sense of history in an amazing natural setting by strolling about the property. You might even see a fresh find during ongoing excavations, or you might strike up a conversation with an archaeologist who is working and can explain the significance of the inscriptions on the marble.

Fountain House And Terrace Walls

Our Greek is a little rusty, but anyone able to decipher this encryption, please leave a comment. We are curious by nature! ? Some parts of Labraunda are very well preserved, while other sections require more use of your imagination. But no matter where you look, you’ll either be wowed by the general views, the natural surroundings, or massive walls, pillars, or tombs. And well, visiting a tomb on the inside is not something we would usually consider outside of an archaeological site. But we had an exit strategy in place just in case.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

You’ll find some excellent and honest reviews on Labraunda on TripAdvisor.  The nearest city is Milas, but if you are going to spend the night in the area, we’d suggest Lake Bafa where you have a good choice of accommodation

Also, check out our post about Çomakdağ if you’re into more off the beaten track experiences. This colorful village is well worth a visit, and it is very near to Labraunda.

The easiest way to reach Labraunda is by car. The site is well signposted from the D525 main road. If you’re using public transportation, your best option is to catch a bus from Milas Otogar to Karpuzlu and to ask the driver to drop you off near Labraunda. From there, it’s a short hike up to the site. The nearest airport is Bodrum Milas with regular connections to Istanbul airports.

POSTS NEARBY

• Çomakdağ: where nomadic traditions are kept alive81 km
• Alında: tucked away in the sacred Latmos mountains51 km
• Beçin Castle: dominating the Milas’ plain27 km
• Non-touristy Muğla? Visit Hekate in Lagina!86 km
• Alabanda: countryside meets ancient site49 km