Termessos
Fortress of the Unconquered Pisidians
Termessos, perched high in the Taurus Mountains, was home to the fiercely independent Pisidians. Known for its formidable natural defenses, it was one of the few cities to defy the might of Alexander the Great.
1.History
Termessos was an ancient city of Pisidia, situated at an altitude of over 1,000 meters on the slopes of Mount Solymos (modern-day Güllük Dağı) in the Taurus Mountains near Antalya, Turkey. Its strategic location on a natural platform surrounded by steep cliffs provided the city with natural defenses and an impressive view over the surrounding landscape. Hidden among pine forests, Termessos remains one of the best-preserved ancient cities in Turkey, notable for its untouched and serene atmosphere.
The city is believed to have been founded by the Solims, a people mentioned in Homer’s Iliad. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited for thousands of years, with findings dating back over 4,000 years. Termessos first came under the influence of Alexander the Great in 333 BC, although the city successfully resisted his attempts to conquer it. Over time, Termessos maintained its independence and was recognized for its fortifications, cisterns, and other important structures, including King Street, which connected the city with the outside world.
The city center of Termessos features several notable public buildings, including the theater, gymnasium, agora, and Roman baths. The theater is especially impressive, offering a stunning view of the Pamphylian plain. It has a seating capacity of around 4,200 people and showcases elements from both Hellenistic and Roman design. Other prominent structures include Hadrian’s triumphal arch, the odeon, and the heroon.
necropolis
Termessos is also known for its extensive necropolis, which contains many rock-cut tombs, including the tomb of Alcetas, one of Alexander the Great’s commanders. Unfortunately, Alcetas’s tomb has been looted over the centuries, but many sarcophagi still remain in situ, offering a glimpse into the ancient burial practices of the city.
Despite its historical significance, no major excavations have taken place at Termessos, leaving much of its archaeological wealth yet to be uncovered. Today, visitors to the site can explore the remains of the ancient city, which include city walls, cisterns, and numerous tombs, while enjoying the peaceful, natural surroundings. Termessos was abandoned in the 5th century AD, marking the end of its long and storied history.
2.How to get there
Termessos is located about 34 kilometers northwest of Antalya. You can reach the site by taking a bus to Korkuteli from Antalya and getting off at the Termessos junction, from where it’s a short taxi ride to the site. Alternatively, by car, take the Antalya-Korkuteli road and follow the “Termessos” signs; the journey takes about 40 minutes.
3.GALLERY
4.Explore Nearby Sites
You can also explore several nearby historical spots around Termessos. 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:
