About this experience
A journey to the ancient temples of the Antalya coast will interest anyone who is passionate about history, architecture, archaeology, painting, and icon painting. You will explore the ruins of the Lycian city of Myra, see the cliffside necropolis and ancient Greek theater. And you will also visit the birthplace of Santa Claus - yes, that one!
What to Expect
Demre and St. Nicholas Church
St. Nicholas the Wonderworker Church in Demre is a place of pilgrimage for Christians from all over the world. It is considered the third most important religious structure of Byzantine architecture in the East. You will examine unusual elements of painting resembling playing card suits, mosaic floor, and a marble sarcophagus, from where in the 11th century Italian merchants stole the relics. I will tell you what kind of person St. Nicholas was and why he is venerated worldwide to this day.
Cliffside Tombs of Myra
Many centuries ago, Myra was the capital of Lycia. You will stroll through its ruins and see the cliffside tombs and ancient Greek theater. You will also find out why the main part of the city ended up underground, how people were buried here before the adoption of Christianity, and what distinguishes an amphitheater from a Greek theater. In addition, you will see a small ancient temple that was found just 10 years ago under a local resident's garden.
Organizational Details
- Departure from Belek at 05:30 am. Along the way, we will stop at a restaurant by the mountain river, where you can try a traditional Turkish breakfast (€5 per person).
- Entrance tickets are paid separately: St. Nicholas Church - 100 lira, Lycian tombs in Myra - 90 lira
