With its nature and historical buildings, Aydin attracts a lot of attention from many local and foreign tourists. Almost every district has historical places. Aydin is home to many ancient cities. The ancient city of Aphrodisias, which welcomes thousands of visitors every year, is in the district of Karacasu in Aydin. It is located within the borders of Geyre. The city is established in a very fertile area in terms of its location.
Especially being close to the mines plays an important role in the historical development of the city. B.C. The city, which is thought to have been founded in 5,000 BC, gains some privileges by Rome. These privileges are rules such as being tax free and having autonomy. Thanks to the marble quarries that are very close to the city, the majority of the city consists of marble structures with magnificence.
Aphrodisias Ancient City Theater
The ancient city of Aphrodisias is not only famous for its marble structures and as the city of many successful sculptors whose reputation extends from Rome to the whole world. It is also famous for its well-preserved ancient theater. The giant building, which has a capacity of 30,000 people, is quite old. With its 7,000-seat giant theater stage, it also has a magnificent size and an eye-catching beauty.
Since the stage is made of white marble, it looks very eye-catching. This structure, which has survived to the present day, is less deformed, unlike other structures throughout history. It attracts a lot of attention because it is the best preserved theater not only in the region but also in the world. It is visited by many people. It is highly appreciated both for its imposing structure and its design.
Stadium
The stadium, which has a capacity of approximately 30,000 people, is among the well-protected structures like the theatre. In this structure, mostly sports activities such as athletics are organized. At the same time, gladiator fights or voting among the people are also held in this structure. This building, which is used for many purposes, has a length of approximately 262 meters and a width of 59 meters. This building, which looks quite high, attracts the attention of many people.
Tetrapylon
The history of this ancient structure, called the quadruple gate, dates back to the 2nd century AD. It presents a very different door appearance, as it is formed by the combination of columns consisting of 4 pairs on the four corners. The upper part of this structure, which consists of 16 columns, is built using the classical Corinthian order for that time.
The door, which was completely collapsed in the first times it was found as a result of archaeological excavations, is restored to its former state with the works carried out. As a result of the restoration works, this building, which is quite eye-catching and majestic, is among the symbols of the city. Both the embroideries on the columns and the triangular roof-like structures on the column attract the admiration of many.
Aphrodisias Museum
The museum exhibits the findings unearthed as a result of archaeological excavations in the city. This museum, which was restored by the Geyre Foundation, exhibits the finds unearthed as a result of archaeological excavations made after 1961. Archaeological finds found in studies conducted before 1961 are exhibited in the archeology museums in Istanbul and Izmir.
The museum, which contains many works related to sculpture, also exhibits finds from many different periods. The museum also contains archaeological remains from the Roman, Byzantine and early Islamic Periods. The Imperial Hall has several rooms divided into sections, such as the Melpomene Hall.
The museum can be visited between 08:30 and 17:00. There is no change in visiting hours both on weekends and on weekdays.
