Sardis was one of the most significant cities of the ancient world, located near the modern town of Sart in Turkey’s Manisa Province. As the capital of the ancient kingdom of Lydia, Sardis played a crucial role in the history of Anatolia. Its strategic position on the route from the Aegean coast to the interior of Asia Minor allowed it to flourish as a commercial and cultural hub. Sardis is particularly famous as the city where coinage was first invented under the rule of the wealthy King Croesus in the 6th century BC, marking a turning point in the history of trade and economy.

The city continued to thrive under Persian, Hellenistic, and Roman rule, maintaining its prominence due to its strategic military location and fertile surroundings. Under Roman administration, Sardis was the seat of a proconsul and the metropolis of the province of Lydia. The city’s prosperity was evident in its impressive architectural projects, including its massive temple dedicated to Artemis, one of the largest Ionic temples in the ancient world, and the well-preserved Roman Bath-Gymnasium complex.

However, Sardis was severely damaged by an earthquake in 17 AD, during the reign of Emperor Tiberius. The city was rebuilt with significant imperial financial aid, reaffirming its importance within the Roman Empire. Despite this, Sardis never fully regained the stature it once had under the Lydians and gradually declined over the centuries.

Sardis today

Today, visitors to Sardis can explore several well-preserved ruins, including the colossal Temple of Artemis, sections of the ancient acropolis, the reconstructed Roman Bath-Gymnasium complex, and the synagogue, which is one of the largest and best-preserved synagogues from the ancient world. Sardis holds a unique position as a crossroads of Eastern and Western cultures, combining influences from Lydia, Persia, Greece, and Rome into its remarkable historical tapestry.

Sardis is located approximately 90 kilometers east of İzmir in Turkey’s Manisa Province, making it accessible by car from İzmir and the surrounding areas. To reach Sardis, visitors can take the D565 highway heading east from İzmir toward Manisa. After reaching Manisa, they continue on the D565 or O-5 highway toward the village of Sart. The journey by car takes about 1.5 hours from İzmir.Public transportation is available, but less frequent. Visitors can take a bus from İzmir’s main bus station to Salihli, which is around 10 kilometers from Sardis. From there, local minibusses or taxis are available to reach the site. Alternatively, guided tours are offered from major cities like İzmir, which include transportation and detailed site visits.

Artemis Temple

Sardes Synagogue

Byzantine shops

You can also explore several nearby historical spots around Sardis. 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:

Nysa

115 km