Phaselis Ancient City

The ancient city of Phaselis is located on a small peninsula extending into the Mediterranean Sea, within the Kemer district of Antalya. According to legend, seafarers from Rhodes discovered the site in the 7th century BCE. During trade with the local population, the answer “fish” to the question “corn or fish?” became the origin story of the city’s founding.

Thanks to its strategic location, Phaselis became one of the major trading ports of the ancient world. Its three distinct harbors—the North Harbor, the Military Harbor, and the South Harbor—provided both security and accessibility. As a result, the city remained a vibrant center of maritime trade for many centuries.

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Situated at the boundary between Lycia and Pamphylia, Phaselis has been regarded as belonging to both regions. Throughout its history, it came under the control of several different powers: the Persians in the 5th century BCE, the Carian satrap Mausolus in the 4th century BCE, followed by King Perikles of Limyra, and finally Alexander the Great in 333 BCE.

Upon Alexander’s arrival, the citizens of Phaselis greeted him by placing a golden crown on his head. During the Roman period, beginning in 43 BCE, the city was rebuilt and entered a period of prosperity that lasted for three centuries. During this time, aqueducts, baths, agoras, and a theater were constructed.

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The main street of Phaselis connects the North and South Harbors. Spanning 20 to 24 meters in width, this road was lined with shops, baths, and agoras, creating a bustling commercial thoroughfare. At its southern end stands a monumental arch erected to commemorate the visit of the Roman Emperor Hadrian.

The small theater in the city was originally built during the Hellenistic period and later renovated in the Roman era with the addition of a stage building. Aqueducts transported water from a spring in the north, distributing it throughout the city via cisterns and channels. The baths reflect Roman heating systems, while the agoras served as centers of commerce and social life.

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Today, Phaselis lies within the Beydağları Coastal National Park, nestled among pine and cedar forests. Visitors can stroll among the ancient ruins while enjoying views of the sea and surrounding nature. It is still possible to swim along the shores of the ancient harbors. With these features, Phaselis offers a unique experience for both history and nature enthusiasts.