DEFEATING ALEXANDER THE GREAT: CONQUERING TERMESSOS

We never imagined the time would come when we would proclaim Alexander the Great to have been defeated. However, we managed to see Termessos, one of those Turkish ruins that, if nothing else, will leave you dumbfounded due to the ascent to the peak of the mountain where Termessos is located. Just northwest of Antalya, find this unspoiled and astonishingly well-preserved eagle’s nest.

Dramatic Setting Of The Theatre

TERMESSOS, EAGLE’S NEST HIDDEN IN THE MOUNTAINS

It’s hard to continue calling Termessos hidden when there’s a large brown road sign pointing in that direction these days. Apart from the sign, though, you don’t see the first remnants of what appears to be a promising ancient site to explore until you reach the parking lot after travelling the 9 km meandering King’s Road. Termessos is the ideal location for a historical hike because it is situated in the Güllük Dağı National Park.

 Ruins At The Water Storage

In reality, Alexander the Great was capable of to capture the city during his conquests in the region, unlike what several guidebooks claim. He simply made no effort. Nevertheless, we did, and you will probably feel inspired to go too after reading this essay and viewing our photos. Oddly enough, Termessos is among Turkey’s best-preserved ancient cities. Oddly, considering how close Antalya is, one would think a location this size would draw many more people. However, it doesn’t appear like too many people are aware of it yet.

The southern necropolis, the city centre, and the lower city ruins make up the three main sections of the city. Its city walls, the theatre, the gym, and the Artemis-Hadrian Temple will all wow you.

Baths Adjacent To The Gymnasium

HIKING AMIDST RUINS IN TURKEY

Visiting Termessos is not an easy feat. The location is mostly undamaged despite being devastated by an earthquake. Prepare to climb some stones or take the rough trails if you want to get up close and personal with the subject matter. Fear not—anyone who is reasonably fit and doesn’t wear flip-flops should be alright. You’ll be amazed if you bring a bottle of water and the thrill of finding an unrestored location.
You get a true sensation of exploration because of the location’s unexcavated state and National Park surroundings. Here, you’re enjoying a wonderful day outside in addition to gazing at ruins. The vastness of the site and the dearth of large numbers of visitors allow you to take in this interesting location in peace, which heightens the experience.

TWO NECROPOLES, ONE ISOLATED TOMB FOR ALCETAS, AND A HANDFUL OF ROCK TOMBS

The southern necropolis of Termessos needs a climb up the hilltop, while the northeastern necropolis is part of the lower city ruins and is situated right before you get to the parking lot. Take a little diversion to the fire watch tower while you’re at it. If you’re lucky, as we were, the guard will invite you inside for free tea and a 360-degree panorama of the property. The two necropoles are a remarkable collection of toppled coffins and graves piled on top of one another.
Be alert for the sign directing you to Alceta’s tomb just before ascending to the top necropolis. This solitary tomb is among the more elaborate ones. Following the defeat of the conquerors, Alcetas, a general in Alexander the Great’s Guard, fled to Termessos. After being betrayed there and taking his own life, he was given a hero’s burial and an ornate mausoleum that featured an image of him riding a horse.
Once you’ve explored the city centre, return to the parking lot by following the western trail, stopping along the way to take in the unique rock tombs.

Alcetas On His Horse

HOW TO GET TO TERMESSOS AND OTHER PRACTICALITIES

Termessos is located along the Burdur-Korkuteli road, some 34km before Antalya and is well waymarked. If you plan on going by public transport from Antalya, you can take a bus from the otogar (bus station) to Korkuteli. Get off at Güllük Dağı National Park and take a taxi from there or hike your way up to the site. There is a small entrance fee to be paid and opening hours vary depending on the season and the weather. In general, the park is open from 9 am to 7 pm from April to October, and from 8 am to 5 pm for the rest of the year. Bear in mind that the ticket booth closes two hours before that time.

Remember that you’ll be hiking some rough trails, or even scrambling over stones and rocks if you want to have a look from up close, and that includes if you want to access the theatre. So, make sure you are wearing good hiking shoes and carry enough water and food to get you through your visit. Count at least two hours, and if you like to take things slowly, half a day isn’t exaggerated.

• Visiting romantic Olympos, Çıralı, and Yanartas (16 km)
• 5 reasons to visit Rhodiapolis despite the restoration scandal (30 km)
• Limyra: an idyllic dive into an ancient basilica! (40 km)
• Wandering the streets of Antalya Old Town (42 km)
• Uncovering mosaics at Arykanda (45 km