a major port city in Lycia and the birthplace of Saint Nicholas. It played a vital role in the Roman Empire’s maritime network and was renowned for its lighthouse
Patara, located near the modern town of Gelemiş in Antalya Province, was an important maritime and commercial city of ancient Lycia. As one of Lycia’s primary seaports, Patara played a crucial role in the region’s economy and politics. It was also one of the principal cities in the Lycian League, holding the maximum number of three votes in the league’s assembly.
Patara’s historical significance extends to mythology as well, with legend attributing its founding to Patarus, a son of Apollo. The city is also famously known as the birthplace of Saint Nicholas (later associated with Santa Claus) in 270 AD. Saint Nicholas spent much of his life in nearby Myra (modern Demre), making the area significant in Christian history.
The city’s prominence can be seen in its connection with historical figures such as Alexander the Great, who captured the city in 333 BC, and Ptolemy Philadelphus of Egypt, who expanded it and renamed it Arsinoë after his sister. Under Roman rule, Patara flourished as the capital of Lycia and remained an essential hub for trade and travelers, particularly during the Byzantine period.
Theatre: Rebuilt under Emperor Antoninus Pius after an earthquake in 147 AD, the theatre could hold around 6,000 spectators and remains a significant part of Patara’s ruins.Bouleuterion (Assembly Hall): A well-preserved structure that served as the meeting place for the Lycian League.Main Street: The colonnaded street, one of the best-preserved in Lycia, connected the inner harbor to the agora, a central marketplace.Lighthouse: Built in 60 AD under Emperor Nero, the lighthouse is one of the oldest surviving examples in the world, serving the ancient harbor that is now silted up and turned into a swamp.
In addition to these structures, Patara’s port was crucial for maritime trade, but over the centuries, it became less accessible due to the silting of the harbor, leading to the city’s decline. The site of the Oracle and Temple of Apollo, mentioned in ancient texts, has yet to be discovered.
Patara continues to be a site of archaeological interest and holds cultural importance in the region. Although the city declined after the Seljuk conquest in 1211 and was eventually abandoned by the 14th century, its ruins still tell the story of its once-great past.
Patara is located near the town of Gelemiş, in Antalya Province. The easiest way to reach Patara is by car from Kaş or Fethiye, both about 45 minutes away. Public buses also operate from both towns to Gelemiş, from where you can walk or take a short taxi ride to the ancient site. The entrance is located near the famous Patara Beach, so many visitors combine both in one trip.
You can also explore several nearby historical spots around Patara. These close-by attractions offer further insight into the rich history of the region and are easily accessible for visitors wanting to extend their journey: