Wherever you enjoy a holiday in Southern Turkey you’re never very far away from historical attractions. The Aegean Coast of Turkey has countless ruins left over from ancient civilisations, going back thousands of years, and a holiday in Altinkum or Didim puts you just minutes away from one of these impressive sites.

 

The town of Didim takes its name from the ancient site of Didyma. Never actually a city, Didyma is a very impressive archaeological site all the same and was used for pilgrimages and religious worship by the Ionions who built most of the structures in the 11^th century BC. The history of the place goes back even further than that though because it’s believed there has been a shrine at this site for hundreds of years before the Ionions came.

 

This Temple of Apollo, who the Ionions were worshipping, is still impressive and large despite having crumbled due to earthquakes. As you enter the site, look out for the fallen head of Medusa that’s become the unofficial symbol and mascot of Didyma.

 

Because Didyma is so close to your hotel in Didim or Altinkum you should definitely take advantage of the proximity and visit the site at least once during your Didim holiday. If this whets your appetite for more ancient history you won’t have to travel too far to fulfill your cravings; see below!

 

Only a short distance from the beaches of Altinkum you’ll come across two more ancient archaeological sites, Miletus and Priene, both of which have something a little different to offer to the other. These are within a short drive of Didim and Altinkum, and you can read more about them on our Didim Altinkum Popular Excursions page.

 

Of course the prize archaeological site in this part of Turkey is the ancient city of Ephesus. If you’re thinking you’ve seen one ancient city so all others will be the same – think again! Ephesus is spectacular in every way and many visitors argue it’s as impressive as Pompeii in Italy. From the towering façade of the Library, to the immense amphitheatre, and its long city streets, Ephesus is well worth a visit. Find out more about visiting this city on our Popular Excursions page.