The ancient city of Prusias ad Hypium is a settlement full of historical and cultural richness. The natural beauty, architectural structures, and rich history it offers visitors make it an excellent destination to explore. Visiting Prusias ad Hypium to walk among ancient ruins, discover traces of the past, and enjoy nature offers an unforgettable experience.
Prusias Ad Hypium Ancient City Photos
The ancient city of Prusias ad Hypium is a historical settlement located near Inegol district of Bursa province in western Turkey. This ancient city is known as an important settlement area during the Roman period. While Prusias ad Hypium attracts attention with its rich history and architectural structures, it also offers a unique experience to its visitors with its location intertwined with nature. One of the most important features of the city is that it is surrounded by natural beauties as well as ruins built from local stones.
In this article, you will find information about where the ancient city of Prusias ad Hypium is located, how to get there, its historical background, architectural features and other elements that will attract visitors.
Where is Prusias ad Hypium & How to get there
Prusias ad Hypium Ancient City is located in the Marmara Region, near the village of Kırkhamit in İnegöl district of Bursa province. It is approximately 40 kilometers from Bursa city center.
Transportation Methods
Various transportation methods can be used to reach the ancient city:
- Private Vehicle: You can take the D200 highway from Bursa city center and head towards Inegol. After reaching İnegöl, it is possible to reach the ancient city by following the signs of Kırkhamit village. It will take about 40 minutes.
- Public Transportation: You can take the buses from Bursa to Inegol and get off at Inegol terminal. You can reach Prusias ad Hypium by minibuses from the terminal to Kirkhamit village.
Why Worth Visiting
Prusias ad Hypium Ancient City attracts attention for the many reasons it offers to visitors:
- Rich History: The history of the ancient city dates back to the 3rd century BC. Visitors have the opportunity to explore this historical texture.
- Architectural Beauties: The ruins of the city contain architectural details from the Roman period. Columns, baths and other structures bear the traces of ancient civilizations.
- Natural Beauties: Prusias ad Hypium is located in the heart of nature. The surrounding green areas and natural landscapes offer visitors a peaceful atmosphere.
- Cultural Events: Cultural events and festivals organized around the city enrich the experience of visitors.
- Educational Opportunities: It is an important research area for history buffs. Archaeological excavations and ruins offer a wealth of information about antiquity.
History of Prusias ad Hypium
Prusias ad Hypium was founded in the 3rd century BC during the Kingdom of Bithynia. The name of the ancient city comes from Prusias I, its founder. The city was also an important settlement during the Roman period.
Prusias ad Hypium developed under the influence of the Roman Empire and became an important center for agriculture and trade during this period. It was especially known for olive and grape cultivation. The ancient city continued its existence as an important settlement area during the Christian era.
Its past wealth and strategic location distinguished Prusias ad Hypium from other settlements in its vicinity. Over time, the ancient city was abandoned as a result of various wars and natural disasters. However, today, excavations are unearthing this historical site again.
Prusias ad Hypium Architectural and Structural Characteristics
Prusias ad Hypium harbors the ruins of many buildings from the Roman period. The architecture of the ancient city reflects the aesthetic understanding of that period.
Colonnaded Streets
The colonnaded streets in the ancient city are elegant examples of Roman architecture. These streets were the center of the city’s social and commercial life. Visitors can take a historical journey by walking among these columns.
Prusias ad Hypium Theater
The theater in the ancient city has a capacity of approximately 2,500 people. The theater is built on a natural slope and attracts attention with its acoustic structure. Visitors can visit the seating areas of the theater and imagine the events of antiquity.
Baths
The baths in Prusias ad Hypium are among the important buildings reflecting the social life of the Roman period. The baths are equipped with hot and cold water pools. Visitors can wander among the ruins of the baths and examine the lifestyle of that period.
Temples
There are temple ruins in various parts of the ancient city. These temples are a reflection of the belief systems of the ancient period. Especially the temple dedicated to the god Zeus is architecturally remarkable.
City Walls
Prusias ad Hypium is surrounded by strong defense walls. These walls were built to protect the city from external threats. Visitors can learn about the ancient defense systems by visiting these ruins.
Interesting Facts About Prusias ad Hypium
- Foundation Date: Prusias ad Hypium was founded in the 3rd century BC and became an important part of the Kingdom of Bithynia.
- Olive Cultivation: The ancient city is famous for olive and grape cultivation. These products formed the economic structure of the city in ancient times.
- Theater: The ancient theater was built on a natural slope and has spectacular acoustics.
- Columns: The columns in Prusias ad Hypium reflect the architectural features of the Roman period.
- Baths: The baths of the ancient city were used as areas of social interaction.
- Defense Walls: Prusias ad Hypium is surrounded by strong defense walls.
- Christian Period: The city was an important settlement area during the Christian period.
- Archaeological Excavations: Today, excavations in the ancient city reveal historical ruins.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Prusias ad Hypium is a settlement that has been home to many civilizations.
- Local Stones: Local stones were used in the construction of the ancient city, which ensured that the building was in harmony with its natural surroundings.
Nearby Attractions
- Inegol Castle: Located in İnegöl city center, this castle is a historical building and offers beautiful views to visitors.
- Oylat Hot Springs: Natural hot springs are an ideal place for those who want to both relax and find healing.
- Sülüklü Lake: This lake, which attracts attention with its natural beauties, is a preferred place for picnics and hiking.
- Bursa: Bursa city center is full of historical and cultural riches. Places such as Grand Mosque, Koza Han and Bursa Castle can be visited.
- Kestel Buzluk Cave: A natural cave, this place is an interesting destination for both nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Prusias ad Hypium is spring and fall. From March to May, the weather is mild, allowing visitors to explore the ancient city more easily. September and October are the months when the warm weather continues and the crowds diminish. Temperatures can be high during the summer months, especially in July and August, so those wishing to visit in summer should be prepared.
Dress Code
When visiting the ancient city of Prusias ad Hypium, it is important to choose comfortable and seasonally appropriate clothing. Especially in summer, it is a good idea to wear light and sweat-proof clothes, a hat and sunglasses to protect from the sun. Also, wearing comfortable shoes while visiting the ancient ruins will make the visiting experience more enjoyable.
Opening and Closing Hours
The ancient city of Prusias ad Hypium is open to visitors at all times of the year. In general, the ancient city opens at 08:00 in the morning and welcomes visitors until 19:00 in the evening. However, it is useful to check the current hours, because there may be changes in the hours due to seasonal changes and weather conditions.
Entrance Fees
A certain fee must be paid to enter the ancient city of Prusias ad Hypium. Entrance fees can be checked on the official website of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Turkey. Generally, the entrance fee is around 50 TL. The USD equivalent of this amount may vary depending on the current exchange rates. (For example, 50 TL can be about 2 USD, but it is useful to check the exchange rates).
Museum Pass Validity
The Ancient City of Prusias ad Hypium is not valid with the Museum Pass. However, holders of this card can get discounted or free entry to other museums and ancient sites. With the Museum Pass, visitors have the opportunity to explore other important cultural and historical sites.