Termessos - Unconquerable Eagle’s Nest With Ancient Ruins

July 12, 2011 - PRLog -- In the Güllük Dağı National Park, 30 kilometres to the north-west of Antalya, expand the ruins of ancient Termessos, also called Aerie. Former city of brave warriors overgrown with Mediterranean forests hides a lot of historic relics. Termessos is probably the most intriguing and interesting city in Antalya region. Termessos, a picturesque ruin flourishing in the Hellenistic era located on the top of a mountain, nowadays remains remarkably undisturbed area and looks a bit isolated. This historic city shelters a large number of rare plants and animal species which are protected by Termessos National Park. The site appeared on Unesco's Tentative List for World Heritage.

Holidaymakers, visiting Termessos, can feel like a conqueror following the footsteps of Alexander the Great. The city’s first records come from the time of king’s conquests. In 333 BC Alexander, determined to capture Termessos, surrounded town but finally failed to conquer because of characteristic location on the peak of mountain which hampered the annexation. Termessos was desolated not by a human being’s force, but nature’s. It was completely abandoned after the earthquake which destroyed aqueduct providing city the water.

The site, fraught with relics and ruins, amazes visitors with breathtaking surrounding and scenic views. Cemeteries containing rock-cut tombs unfortunately despoiled by treasure hunters, cult buildings which belonged to nobles, striking agora with special architectural characteristics, six temples of different sizes and types from Hadrian’s rule period, triumphal arch, cisterns and drainage system are just several of countless attractions. Worth paying attention is a theatre with capacity of 5 thousand spectators and untypical location. It’s situated, not as it used to be done – at the foot of hill, but on the edge of a rock of the highest point of Termessos.

The park opens at 08:30 am in summer. In winter, the park may open at 08:00 am but can be closed early in case of bad weather conditions. There is also an opportunity to employ a guide for a tour which is a good idea for archeology hobbyists. There is no form of public transport to and from Termessos but trips can be organized in Antalya, only 30 km away from ancient city.

Tuvana Hotel, which supports historic values of the region and offers a tour desk information about local attractions can be the best option to stay for adventure lovers. Located in the heart of Kaleici close to Termessos, as well as other historic monuments, city spots, sandy beaches and offering luxurious accommodation with top quality staff, Tuvana includes all determinants to satisfy even the most demanding guests.