Sillyon Ancient City

Description

It is the ancient city of Pamphylia, built on a high hill, famous for its walls.

Story

Sillyon Ancient City, located near the Serik district, is considered one of the most strategic cities in the Pamphylia region due to its establishment on a high hill dominating the plain. Although traces of settlement date back to the 3rd millennium BC, the city's most glorious period was during the Hellenistic and Roman times. The walls of Sillyon are among the most impressive defensive structures in the Antalya region; particularly, the southern walls rise dramatically on massive cliffs, giving the city the appearance of a natural fortress. Within the city, there are a theater, a stadium, an agora, and various public buildings; however, what is truly captivating is that the entire structure remains largely hidden within nature. Over time, earthquakes and natural conditions have destroyed some parts of the city, yet the large stone blocks still stand with the grandeur of their first days. With the Seljuks gaining control of the region in the 12th century, the city regained importance, and some modifications were made to the structures left from the Byzantine period. The local people refer to the hill where Sillyon is located as 'the cities of the cliffs'; because some parts of the city are situated on the edge of a cliff, and the view is breathtaking. According to legends, in ancient times, the city served as a secure storage center for merchants coming from other nearby cities. Sillyon's strategic location allowed it to withstand enemy attacks for a long time. Today, the extensive ruins still cover a wide area, taking visitors on a slow journey through a history waiting to be discovered. From the city, the white peaks of the Taurus Mountains, the agricultural fields in the plain, and the distant view of the Mediterranean combine to create a panoramic scene.

Visit Tips

• Entry is free, but the last part of the road is dirt and uneven.
• Always carry water and a hat in hot weather.
• The ascent to the top is steep in some places, so sturdy shoes are required.
• Since the city spreads over a wide area, allocate at least 1-2 hours.

Photos