MYRA

WHY MYRA GOES BEYOND THE MEDUSA SELFIES

Welcome to Myra, the ancient city formerly known as Demre or Kale in Turkey. Nestled between the charming towns of Kaş and Çıralı on the stunning Mediterranean coast, Myra holds a rich history as part of the renowned Lycian League and the UNESCO sites of Xanthos, Letoon, Tlos, Pınara, and Patara. While time may have dimmed some of its former glory, Myra remains a favourite destination for day-trippers from Antalya, Kaş, or Kalkan.

The question is, is Myra worth a stop? And does it have more to offer than the selfie moment with one of the many Medusa’s on the site? The answer is yes! Especially if you combine your visit to Myra with a stop at the beautiful Saint Nicholas Church in Demre and a walk around Andriake.

Myra Overview With Theatre On The Right And Rock Tombs On The Left

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A VISIT TO MYRA?

Explore the captivating Lycian Rock Tombs, a mesmerizing sight as they seemingly stack upon each other in the cliffy rocks surrounding the theater. Dating back to the 4th century BC, these tombs were once adorned with vibrant colors, although traces of them have faded over time. However, the tombs remain remarkably well-preserved, boasting intricate reliefs that will leave you intrigued.

Take your time to unravel the details within this web of tomb temples and immerse yourself in the ancient history of Myra. A trip to Myra is incomplete without marveling at these remarkable rock-cut resting places.

The Major Part Of Myra’s Rock Tombs

AN IMPRESSIVE ROMAN THEATRE

Indeed, the Roman theatre may not be the most photographed part of the site, it is a substantial theatre, with 35 seat rows, arched passages, original staircases that are still in use, and a beautifully decorated stage-area. Its setting in front of the cliffs, and next to the necropolis must have been breathtaking. Nowadays, it is still pretty, but it is, like Xanthos, surrounded by the greenhouses that seem to have filled all space in the valleys around Demre. Don’t be put off by that though, once inside, you’re back in the glory days, and it is easy to imagine the greatness of the place, and how decadent things must have been.

HOW ABOUT THE MEDUSA?

Well, the Medusa seems to be a favourite object for people to have a selfie with. That, or one of the many depicted masks you’ll find in Myra. One can’t help but wonder if people are aware of the dreadful story of Medusa when they are posing for their next photo. Medusa is probably one of the most famous characters from Greek mythology. Many believe her to be a monster, but she isn’t. Medusa, known as the woman with snakes instead of hair and a gaze that turns mortals into stone, was a cursed woman. 

Medusa Detail

Places We Reccomend

THINGS TO DO AROUND MYRA & HOW TO GET THERE

Myra is a rather small ancient site. Ideally, you could combine it with a visit to Saint Nicholas Church in Demre and the old Lycian port of Andriake. Both Saint Nicholas Church and Myra are classic stops for organized tours in the area. Most of these groups don’t stay longer than half an hour on-site though, so plenty of time to have a cup of tea and wait for the calm to return. The site is located in Demre.

POSTS NEARBY

• Where is Santa Claus? In Saint Nicholas church in Turkey! (0.20 km)
• Andriake: one of the fun things to do in Kalkan (3.46 km)
• Surprising Sura & its unusual fish oracle (3.80 km)
• Simena and the sunken city of Kekova: paradise exists! (11.55 km)
• Kyaneai: Lycian Way detour near Kaş (15.22 km)

If you have any questions about Myra, feel free to ask. You can message us through our contact page or leave a comment on our Instagram or Facebook pages.

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