Myra Antique City: The stone-carved legacy of the Lycian civilization.
Located in the Demre district of Antalya, the ancient city of Myra is one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the Mediterranean Region and one of the most important cities of the ancient Lycian civilization. With its thousands of years of history, magnificent rock-cut tombs, and impressive Roman theatre, Myra is among Turkey's most visited cultural heritage sites.
Throughout history, Myra was one of the leading cities of the Lycian League, and it experienced significant development especially during the Roman and Byzantine periods. In ancient times, it was an important trade and religious centre, and today its unique architectural structures offer visitors the opportunity to travel back in time.
Myra's most striking structures are the Lycian Rock Tombs carved into the high cliffs. The ancient Lycians believed that souls could more easily reach the sky after death, so they built their tombs on mountain slopes. Still largely preserved today, these tombs showcase the Lycian civilisation's mastery of engineering and stonemasonry.
Another important structure of the ancient city is the Roman Theatre. Thought to have a capacity of around 10,000 people, the theatre is considered one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the region. The detailed stonework and architectural structure of the theatre give visitors a sense of the splendour of the Roman period.
Myra also holds great importance in the history of Christianity. The internationally renowned Saint Nicholas, known as Santa Claus, served as the Bishop of Myra for many years. The Church of Saint Nicholas in Demre is visited by thousands of visitors from different countries every year. Thanks to this feature, Myra is an important centre for faith tourism as well as cultural tourism.
The Demre region, where the ancient city of Myra is located, is also surrounded by the natural beauties of the Mediterranean. Nearby destinations such as Kekova, the Sunken City, Simena (Kaleköy), and Üçağız create unforgettable travel routes for visitors to the region. This geography, where history and nature come together, stands out as one of Antalya's most special discovery points.
Listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, the ancient city of Myra offers a unique experience for visitors who want to discover the traces of past civilisations. With its magnificent rock tombs, impressive theatre and rich historical heritage, Myra is one of Turkey's historical treasures that must be seen.