Antandros Ancient City is an essential historical settlement in northwestern Turkey, close to the Gulf of Edremit. Antandros attracts attention not only because of its historical ruins but also because of its mythological stories and cultural richness. The origins of the ancient city date back to the 3rd millennium BC, and it has been home to many civilizations throughout history.

Antandros Ancient City Photos

Where is Antandros Ancient City / How to get there

The ancient city of Antandros is located in Edremit district in the Western Anatolia region of Turkey. The ancient city is located 8 kilometers east of Edremit, in an area surrounded by olive trees and therefore offers a natural beauty.

Transportation Methods

Private Vehicle: It is quite easy to reach Antandros by private car. Those departing from Istanbul can reach the city with a journey of approximately 4-5 hours by driving towards Edremit on the D550 highway. After arriving in Edremit, you can reach the ancient city with an 8-kilometer journey by following the signs of Antandros.
Public Transportation: It is also possible to reach Edremit by bus. There are bus services to Edremit from Istanbul, Izmir and other big cities. You can reach Antandros from Edremit bus station by local minibus or taxi.
By Air: The nearest airport is Balıkesir Koca Seyit Airport. You can reach Edremit from the airport and then transfer to Antandros by minibus or taxi. This option is very practical for those who prefer air transportation.

Why Worth Visiting Antandros Ancient City

Historical Richness: Antandros has been home to many civilizations throughout history. The city offers important information about the past with its historical ruins.
Archaeological Excavations: Archaeological excavations in the city reveal the historical and cultural importance of Antandros. Thanks to these excavations, visitors can see important remains of the ancient period.
Natural Beauty: Antandros has a peaceful atmosphere with its surrounding olive trees and natural landscape. Visitors can experience both historical and natural beauties together.
Mythological Legends: Antandros is also associated with mythological stories. The city is one of the places specifically mentioned in Homer’s “Iliad”. Visitors can embark on a historical journey exploring these mythological connections.
Peaceful Atmosphere: The ancient city of Antandros has a tranquil atmosphere away from the crowded tourist areas. Therefore, it is the perfect place to visit for both history buffs and nature lovers.

History of Antandros Ancient City

The history of Antandros is thought to date back to the 3rd millennium BC. The ancient city is known to have been founded by Aeolian colonies, especially in the 8th century BC. Antandros became an important trade center at that time.

Antiquity: Antandros has shown a great development especially since the 6th century BC. The city established trade relations with important cities such as Miletus and Ephesus. Antandros was famous for its olive and olive oil production.
Hellenistic Period: In the 4th century BC, Antandros came under the influence of the Macedonian Empire. During this period, new buildings were built in the city and cultural life enriched.
Roman Period: Antandros was also an important settlement during the Roman Empire. During this period, the buildings built in the city bear the effects of Roman architecture. Antandros is known as a rich city during the Roman period.
Byzantine Period: During the Byzantine period, Antandros was under the influence of Christianity and religious buildings were built. During this period, the city witnessed various wars and sieges.
Abandonment: Antandros was abandoned in the 14th century. During this period, political turmoil in the region caused the city to lose its importance. In time, the ruins of Antandros were forgotten and swallowed by nature.
Today: Excavations in the 20th century led to the rediscovery of Antandros. Today, the ancient city of Antandros is preserved as an archaeological site and is open to visitors.

Architectural and Structural Characteristics

The ancient city of Antandros has a very rich architectural structure. In this section, we will examine the architectural details and structural features of the city in more detail.

City Structure

Antandros was founded in a strategic location and is located in an area with natural defense features. The city was built with a planned structure.

Walls: The walls around Antandros were built to protect the city against attacks from outside. These walls are made of stones and have a very thick structure. The remains of the city walls show how strong the city’s defense system was.
Gates: The main entrance gates of Antandros are located at certain points of the city walls. These gates were used for both trade and military passage. The architecture of the gates reflects the construction techniques of the period.

Important Structures

There are many important buildings in the ancient city of Antandros. These structures reveal the historical and cultural richness of the city.

Theater: The theater in Antandros is an important building reflecting the cultural life of the ancient period. It is thought to have been built in the 2nd century BC. The theater has a capacity of approximately 2000 people and attracts attention with its stage structure and seating areas.
Temples: There are many temple ruins in the city. These temples reflect the belief system and religious life of the ancient period. The ruins of the temples reveal the architectural understanding of the period.
Agora: The agora, the central area of Antandros, is a place where trade and social interactions took place. The agora, together with the buildings around it, forms the heart of the ancient city.
Bath: The ruins of the baths in Antandros bear the effects of Roman period architecture. The baths had an important role in both social and cultural life.
Waterways: Antandros has waterways built to meet the water needs. These waterways were used to meet the water needs of the city in ancient times. Waterways are an important factor in the development of the city.

Sightseeing

The ancient city of Antandros is surrounded by natural beauty. The area where the ancient city is located is covered with olive trees and green nature.

Olive Trees: Antandros is famous for its olive production. Olive trees are widespread around the ancient city. These trees symbolize the historical richness of the city.
Nature Walks: Antandros offers the opportunity to take a walk with its natural beauties. Visitors can enjoy nature by walking around the ancient city.

Interesting Facts About Antandros Ancient City

Mentioned by Homer: Antandros is one of the places mentioned by the famous Greek poet Homer in his work “Iliad”. This work increases the mythological importance of Antandros.
Theater: The theater in Antandros is a well-preserved structure from the ancient period to the present day. This theater forms an important part of the cultural life of Antandros.
Olive Oil Production: Antandros was famous for olive and olive oil production in ancient times. Olive oil had an important place in both trade and daily life.
First Settlements: The settlement traces of Antandros date back to 3000 BC. This situation increases the historical importance of the region.
Water Systems: The waterways in Antandros were developed to meet the need for water in the ancient period. These water systems played an important role in the development of the city.
Being on the Trade Road: Antandros is located on an important trade route. This location strengthened the commercial relations of the city.
Excavation Activities: Antandros has been unearthed by excavations since the mid-20th century. These excavations revealed the history and cultural richness of the city.
Architectural Diversity: Antandros is a place where architectural structures from different periods coexist. This shows the historical diversity of the city.
Legendary: Past Antandros is surrounded by many legends and stories among the locals. These legends have given the city a mystical atmosphere.
Nature and History: Antandros is one of the rare places that offers natural beauties and historical ruins together. Visitors can witness history and enjoy nature at the same time.

Nearby Attractions

Edremit: Edremit is located very close to Antandros. This district attracts visitors with its natural beauties and historical buildings.
Mount Ida: The Ida Mountains are about 30 km from Antandros. These mountains are famous for their natural beauty, fresh air and hiking trails.
Altinoluk: Altinoluk is a holiday resort on the coast of Edremit Gulf. It attracts great attention in the summer months with its beaches and natural beauties.
Şahinderesi Canyon:This canyon is an ideal place for hiking and camping. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the canyon.
- Akçay: Akçay is another resort town of Edremit. It is famous for its beaches and seafood restaurants. Visitors can enjoy both the sea and the sun here.

Best Time to Visit Antandros Ancient City

The best time to visit the ancient city of Antandros is spring and fall. From March to May, the weather is mild and nature comes alive. 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 Antandros, it is important to choose comfortable and seasonally appropriate clothes. Since you will be hiking, wearing comfortable shoes will make the visiting experience more enjoyable. It is also recommended to wear outerwear according to the weather conditions.

Antandros Ancient City Opening and Closing Hours

Antandros Ancient City is open to visitors at all times of the year. In general, the ancient city opens at 09:00 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 according to seasonal changes and special days.

Antandros Ancient City Entrance Fees

The entrance fee to the ancient city of Antandros is around 5 USD.

Museum Pass

Antandros is not valid with the Museum Pass.

Antandros Ancient City is a settlement full of history and natural beauties. It offers visitors an unforgettable experience with both its architectural structures and the natural beauties around it. By visiting Antandros, you can discover the traces of the past, witness history by wandering among the ancient ruins and enjoy nature.

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