Şar (Comana) Ancient City

Description

An ancient settlement that was a sacred center during the Roman and Byzantine periods, famous for its theater, temple ruins, and monumental gate.

Story

Şar Ancient City, or by its ancient name Komana (Comana), is a city established at the northeastern edge of Adana, nestled among the high Taurus Mountains. It gained significant importance especially during the Roman period and became renowned as a sacred temple city since the Hittites. The city's most well-known feature is a large temple dedicated to the goddess Ma and a cultural center that developed around this temple. Important Roman leaders such as Emperor Trajan and Hadrian visited the city, further reinforcing its strategic and religious significance. Today, the remains of the city's theater, temple, monumental gate (Tetrapylon), and walls can be seen. Due to the region's challenging geography, the ruins of Şar are relatively well-preserved, making it an important reference point not only for Adana but for the entire history of Cilicia and Cappadocia. The city's location was also vital for controlling the historical transit routes between the interior of Anatolia and Çukurova.

Visit Tips

• Before visiting the ancient city of Şar, it would be beneficial to do some research in advance to understand the history and significance of the area.
• Avoid the hottest hours of the sun and prefer to visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon; these times are more comfortable in terms of weather conditions and allow you to stay away from the crowds.
• When walking in the ancient city, don't forget to wear comfortable shoes, as the walking paths can sometimes be uneven.
• During your visit, don't forget to bring water with you; especially in the summer months, it is important to stay hydrated to prevent water loss in hot weather.

Photos