Termessos

About Termessos

Termessos was a city of the Pisidians, a warlike people of the Taurus mountains. Its position, on a high plateau reached by a steep approach, made it so defensible that, according to ancient sources, Alexander the Great decided against a siege. The ruins are today part of Güllük Dağı (Termessos) National Park, around 30 kilometres from central Antalya.

Because the site was never rebuilt or quarried heavily, it feels more like an abandoned city than a restored one. Fallen columns lie where they dropped, trees grow through the theatre seating and the necropolis spreads across the hillside with rock-cut tombs and carved sarcophagi. The theatre, with a backdrop of mountains, is the signature view.

Practical notes

• Plan for a hot, steep climb on uneven paths. Wear proper walking shoes and take water; there is limited shade.
• Go in the morning, in spring or autumn if you can; summer afternoons are demanding.
• A car or private transfer is the simplest way to get there; some day tours include it with other sites.
• Allow two to three hours on site, plus the drive.
• The park has a small visitor area near the entrance; confirm current hours and fees before you set off.

Location