Lycian tombs of Fethiye on the map. Lycian rock tombs - Lycian Myra in Turkey. Ancient Lycia on the map of modern Turkey

Lycian tombs in Myra (Rock-cut tombs in Myra) can be seen in ancient capital Lycia, which is located 5 kilometers from Mediterranean Sea, on the Andrak River, at the mouth of which there was once the harbor of Andriake, according to legend, the Apostle Paul landed in this place before his departure to Rome. On the mountainside facing the sea, which frames the Demre plain, to the north-west you can see the ruins of an ancient acropolis. The wall is two hundred meters high, built on a foundation of Cyclopean stones. During excavations, records were discovered in the Lycian language, characterizing the area with the name "Thermilia", thus indicating that the history of Myra goes back several thousand years BC.

There are several versions about how the name of the city arose, the first: from the word “myrrh” - the resin from which incense was made for the church. Second: the name of the city “Maura” is of Etruscan origin and means “place of the Mother Goddess”, in phonetic pronunciation the name changed first to “Mura” and later to “Mira”. In the third version, in the ancient Lycian language, Mira means the city of the Sun.

In ancient times, Myra was the capital of Lycia and existed long before the advent of our era. At one time, it was part of the Lycian Union and was even awarded the right to mint its own coins. The decline of the city is directly related to the increasing frequency of Arab raids in the 7th century, as well as the flooding of the local river with mud. In the Christian world, the former capital of the great ancient state is known thanks to the acts of Nicholas the Wonderworker, who in 300 AD studied in Xanth and soon became the bishop of Myra. After his death, miraculous healings began to occur in the city among believers who came to the Church of St. Nicholas to worship his ashes, and over time, Mira became a place of pilgrimage for adherents of the holy faith.

Repin, “Nicholas of Myra saves three innocently convicted people from death”

Saint Nicholas (Nicholas the Pleasant; Nicholas the Wonderworker - ca. 270-ca. 345)) is one of the most beloved saints in Rus'; many churches were erected in his honor. He is revered as a miracle worker and considered the patron saint of sailors, merchants and children. In European folklore, the prototype of Santa Claus.

Saint Nicholas also became famous as a pacifier of warring parties, a defender of the unjustly condemned, and a deliverer from needless death. The worldly mayor Eustathius, bribed by the envious people of certain three men, condemned them to death. Having learned about the unjust act of the worldly mayor, Saint Nicholas immediately hastened to help. He appeared at the execution site when the sword was already raised over the heads of the innocently condemned. Having removed the guards, the saint stopped the executioner's hand. No one dared to stop him. The mayor, menacingly denounced by Saint Nicholas, confessed to his sin and asked to accept his repentance. This story inspired I. Repin and he expressed his feelings in this picture.

IN Western Europe The saint is still perceived to this day as the patron of children, to whom, according to ancient writings, he brought gifts on Christmas night throughout the years that he lived here. During the time of the Byzantine Emperor Constantine IX Monomakh, the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker was surrounded by a fortress wall in order to preserve the shrine from the encroachments of the Arabs. In the spring of 1087, the remains of St. Nicholas were transported to Italy, where they are kept to this day. Today, thousands of pilgrims come to Mira (Demre) from different countries world, especially to visit the church of the great saint.

In Latin, Saint Nicholas sounds like Santa Nikolaus, can you guess what this name turned into over time? Certainly Santa Claus! Demre (Mira) is the birthplace of Santa Claus, his prototype is a real person - the famous Nikolai Ugodnik.

Not far from the tombs is the ancient theater of the city of Mira. I will explain why this theater is considered Greco-Roman. Lycia was conquered by the Greeks and it is thanks to the Greeks that the theater in Myra has the appearance of a classical theater building. The main difference between the Greek theater is its semicircular structure with a stage in the center, on which performances took place. There are spectator seats adjacent to the stage. During its history, the theater was repeatedly destroyed, subjected to earthquakes, and flooded, but was always restored. After some time, Lycia ceded to the Roman Empire. The Romans completed the construction of the theater and added some touches to its design and decoration. That is why the theater is considered Greco-Roman.

The differences between the Roman amphitheater and the Greek theater are obvious: the amphitheater, for example the most popular - the Colosseum, has a circular structure like a circus, and the audience seats completely surround the stage on all sides. Thanks to its semicircular structure, the theater in Mir has excellent acoustics, such that even a whisper from the stage can be heard in the very last row.

Climate. On weather of this region largely influenced by the Mediterranean climate. In winter, the air temperature here rarely drops below +10 degrees, and in summer it often exceeds +30. Tourist interest in these places is highest in the period from May to September, when numerous vacationers travel here from the Antalya coast along the route Demre-Mira-Kekova, in order to diversify their holiday as much as possible. beach holiday. Majority excursion routes starts at 7 am, and they last until the evening, so tourists return from the trip tired but happy.

How to get there. Transport. The city of Demre, with the archaeological complex of Mira, is located several tens of kilometers from Antalya, and 45 km from Kas. Kalkan, Finike and Olympos are nearby. Solo travel from Antalya airport it is possible by rented car or taxi. It is strongly recommended to use the services of a local driver, as the road is at times very difficult and sometimes unsafe.

In the Middle Ages, Myra (Demre) became one of the centers of pilgrimage for Christians. Subsequently, a monastery was built in Mir (Demre) near the temple of St. Nicholas the Pleasant.

In the 10th century AD, the relics of the saint were taken from Myra (Demre) to Italy. According to one version, they were stolen, according to another, they tried to save the sarcophagus with relics from looting and voluntarily allowed it to be transported. However, miracles in Demre (Mira) did not stop, and then a legend arose that the monks indicated the wrong grave, and in fact, the relics of the saint are still in Demre (Mira) to this day.

Temple of St. Nicholas the Pleasant is the main attraction of Demre (Mira).

Cuisine and shopping. There are few culinary establishments in Demre, although the choice of dishes allows you to appreciate all the delights of the national Turkish cuisine. Of course not here for shopping the best place in Turkey, but it is quite possible to buy various icons, healing oils, crosses with a chain and all sorts of talismans. Their prices are quite high, but the real value of these things cannot be overestimated. Icons and healing oils, sold in special bottles, are in high demand, so their cost is inflated initially, however, this is precisely what you should not save on.

Demre-Mira-Kekova is one of the most popular and interesting excursions in Antalya. Among tourists who have ever been to Turkey, there are few who have not seen the ancient Lycian city of Myra, touched the sarcophagus of St. Nicholas or sat on the steps of the local amphitheater. Fullness of impressions and a lot of pleasant emotions certainly accompany this trip, making a vacation on the Mediterranean coast much more eventful and educational.

The ancient city of Demre Mira is one of the most popular places in Turkey. Every tourist who has ever vacationed in Turkey has heard about the excursion “Ancient City of Demre Mira + Kekova”. And every second of these tourists has been on such an excursion. Therefore in high season The crowd in these places is incredible. However, we managed to come here at the most convenient moment when we could do unique photos the famous Lycian tombs and the Demre amphitheater without tourists.


The secret is simple: we arrived in the ancient city of Demre Mira during the lowest season of international relations. Moreover, independently. Besides in the spring. Therefore, there were practically no tourist groups here. Only occasionally did companies of Turks, as well as small groups of Russian-speaking tourists, ascend the steps of the amphitheater, pointing their fingers at us and asking the guide: “What are these OUT places?” Otherwise! For independent tourists always and everywhere VIP seats plus as much time at the sights as your heart desires. Why not a reason?

By the way, the popular excursion in Turkey that these tourists came on is called “The Ancient City of Demre Mira Kekova.” But we excluded the last point from our route due to lack of interest. Kekova is a sunken city, and the trip to it involves bobbing on the waves above the place where it once stood. Or maybe he was in a different place altogether - anyway, nothing is visible under water.

Ancient city of Demre Mira. Historical reference

To begin with, a few words about what is it - the ancient city of Demre Mira. The Turkish city of Demre is located in the province of Antalya, 5 km from the sea and 150 km from Antalya itself. Very close to this city, almost within its boundaries, are the ruins of the ancient Lycian city of Myra. That is why it often bears a double name - “The Ancient City of Demre Mira”.

It is not known exactly when Mira was founded. The first mention of this city dates back to the 2nd century BC - in those days Myra was part of the Lycian League and was one of its largest cities. At one time, Myra was even the capital of Lycia. It was during those times, about 2000 years ago, that the most famous attractions were built - the amphitheater and the Lycian tombs in Myra. Which, by the way, was destroyed by an earthquake in the 2nd century AD, but then completely rebuilt.

Later the city became part of the Roman Empire and adopted Christianity. From 300 to 343 AD Nicholas was Bishop of Myra- aka Nikolai the Wonderworker, aka Nikolai Ugodnik, aka Santa Claus (Santa Nikolaus) and aka Father Frost. In Demre, the church where he served is still preserved (as well as dozens of icon shops, which tourists are sure to visit on the excursion “The Ancient City of Demre of the World”). Nicholas was revered by Christians as the protector of children, which is why the fairytale grandfather who gives gifts received his name. By the way, Santa Claus owes his usual appearance - a red fur coat, beard, staff and other attributes - to the Coca Cola company. And Father Frost, respectively, is Santa Claus.

So the city flourished until it was destroyed first by the Arabs (IX century), and then by the Seljuks (XII century). Since then, the ancient city of Demre Mira looks about the same as it does now. Let's see exactly how!

He came, he saw, he filmed. Photo of Demre Myra without tourists

At the entrance to the ancient city of Demre Mira, you are greeted by a number of religious shops. Going to Turkey and not bringing back an Orthodox icon from there is a great sin.

And here are the promised ones photo ancient city Demre World without tourists. Mira Amphitheater: Take any seat!

Since there is room for an apple to fall in the auditorium, I’ll sit in the VIP seat.

Turks charge 20 liras per person for entry to the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre. Now I know where Santa Claus gets money for gifts.

No, this is not Ataturk: ​​the ancient city of Demre Mira in Turkey is decorated with a monument to St. Nicholas the Wonderworker.

And finally, a few words about prices.

  • Ticket to the ancient city of Myra: 20 liras.
  • Ticket to the Church of St. Nicholas the Wonderworker: 20 liras.
  • Bus ticket from Antalya to Demre: 22 liras.
  • Bus ticket from Kemer to Demre: 18 liras.
  • Bus ticket from Fethiye to Demre: 25 liras.
  • One night in the cheapest Hotel Demre : 40 dollars.

This is what the ancient city of Demre Mira looks like in the photo if you come there in the low season. However, in the World, as in all of Turkey, it is always good. And from Demre we went further west, to the beautiful small town of Kas. , the fun is just beginning!

And we simply could not pass by such a significant landmark. Was it worth going up to the tomb and is this monument really worth visiting? I suggest you find out this with us.

What exactly are the Lycian tombs? First of all, this is a unique architectural structure in the rocks, which dates back to the 4th century BC!

Lycian tombs are a special type of funerary art. Firstly, their history goes back more than 2.5 thousand years. Secondly, the massive stone sculptures have a very unusual shape. Well, thirdly, all this stone beauty is carved right into the rock!

Fortunately, unlike many other attractions in the city, the Lycian Tombs survived two powerful earthquakes in Turkey (in 1857 and 1957). Therefore, you can look at them now.

Doesn't it look unusual?

The modern resort of Fethiye was built on the site of the ancient city of Telmessos. At one time, it was one of the largest cities in the state of Lycia.

The most famous tomb in Fethiye is considered to be the tomb of King Amyntas (the inscription “Amintas, son of Hermagios” is even preserved inside). A copy of the Greek temple was erected around 350 century BC. And all this without electricity or construction equipment!

Very impressive:



2. Useful information

2.1. Where is

The Lycian Tombs are located on the outskirts of Fethiye. You can get to them from anywhere in the city, as well as from Ovacik.

Location on the map:

2.2. How to get there

  • Taxi

Taxis to the tombs can be ordered from any area of ​​the city and from the suburbs of Fethiye, and you can also order an individual transfer online here.

You can park your car at the foot of the mountain. Taxis also stop here:

  • On foot

You can walk from the city center (or the bus station) - you need to go towards the mountains, sooner or later you will see signs.

The road towards the tombs. Our final goal is the mountain in the background:


From this point the tombs are already visible:

  • Book an excursion

A visit to the Lycian Tombs is included in any sightseeing tour in Fethiye. Considering that sightseeing does not take much time, you can visit the tombs as part of an excursion group.

  • By public transport.

Next to the Lycian Tombs is the final stop of the dolmus, which is used to get here from Fethiye and the surrounding suburbs. We drove from Calis beach (two liras per person). From the stop to the tombs it’s another ten minutes walk.

2.3. Visiting time

You can enter the paid territory from 08.00 to 19.00:



2.4. Price

From afar, you can admire the tombs completely free of charge - they are clearly visible from below. Or you can climb to the very top and examine the tombs from the inside (you will have to pay for this 5 liras).


Price entrance ticket to the Lycian Tombs - 5 liras:



3. Photo walk and views of the city

You can climb to the farthest tomb:


A very steep uphill climb begins here:


Climbing up is incredibly difficult:


From the information poster we learned a couple of facts about the history of the tombs:


Opposite the cash register there is a cozy cafe with beautiful view:


Immediately behind the cash register there are steps up:


A steep staircase stretches all the way to the entrance to the tomb:


Stunning view of Fethiye from the highest point:


And this is the view from the other side. By the way, on the mountain to the left are the remains of a fortress. And you can go up there for free:


This is what the tomb looks like from the inside today. No comments:


View of the city from the tomb:


With Fethiye in the background:


The tomb itself is striking in its gigantic size! But the room allocated for the sarcophagus is very tiny. And again - very, very steep stairs:


Stunning views of the port and city.

Lycia- in the 1st millennium BC, a highly developed state in the south of Asia Minor was located on the territory modern province Turkey - Antalya.

The Lycian kingdom bordered Phrygia, Pisidia, Pamphylia and Caria, and was washed by the Lycian Sea in the south.
Most of it was occupied by mountains, but there was also a plain, irrigated by the Xanthus River.

The country was inhabited by the Indo-European people of the Lycians (descendants of the Luwians, called “Lucca”).
In 1 thousand BC. e. From its midst, the ethno-linguistic groups of Milians, Termilians, and others emerged. The Lycians borrowed their writing in the 6th century. BC e. among the Dorians of the island of Rhodes.

The most significant monument of Lycian writing is the stele from Xanthus (4th century BC).

Large cities of Lycia: Xanthus, Phaselis, Patara, etc. The small town of Telmessy, where the temple and oracle of Apollo were located, was famous.

The temple and funerary buildings were distinguished by their magnificent architecture.

Living evidence of this once outstanding civilization is the unique rock Lycian tombs and the magnificent antique amphitheater in the city of Mira.

The country's population was engaged in agriculture, cattle breeding, winemaking, chalk mining, shipbuilding, and sea robbery.

In the 7th-6th centuries. BC e. Lycia defended its independence in the fight against the Lydian kingdom, but in 546 it was conquered by the Persians.
The latter initially retained hereditary royal power and local self-government there.

Under Darius I, the Persians included the country in the satrapy of Ionia and imposed tribute in the form of grain, silver, wool, etc.
Some of the Lycians were driven to Persia and performed royal labor as forced laborers “kurtash”.

At the end of the 4th century. BC e. Lycia became part of the empire of Alexander the Great, and after his death it went to his associate Antigonus.
In 295-197 BC. e. was under the rule of the Ptolemies, which more than once in the so-called. The “Syrian” wars were contested by the Seleucids until they finally captured Lycia under Antiochus III.

After the defeat of Antiochus by the Romans in 188 BC. e. it was transferred to Rhodes, against which the Lycians rebelled three times.

Lycia supported Rome in its fight against the Pontic kingdom and in 168. BC e. in gratitude for this she regained independence.
The state united 23 cities into an independent union friendly to Rome.
At 43 AD, under Emperor Claudius, a new Roman province was formed from Lycia and Pamphylia.

In the 3rd century AD e. The Romans had to wage a fierce struggle with the robber tribes of the Isaurians who had captured Lycia.
After the division of the Roman Empire in 395, it became part of Byzantium. From the 11th century belongs to the Turks.

Basic moments

According to the beliefs of the Lycians, after death, the souls of people turned into winged creatures similar to the Sirens. The higher the burial is, the faster the soul of the deceased will go to heaven. That is why the necropolis was built above the city, on a rocky cliff.

The Lycian tombs of Myra were carved into the rock, and no other building materials were used for the necropolis. The facades of the burials were made to look like houses or temples. On them you can see the resemblance of pylons, columns, carved doors and relief images. Some tombs are decorated with a gable roof carved into the rock.

Under the rock necropolis there is a Greco-Roman theater. For visitors, the Lycian Tombs of Myra are open daily: from April to October from 9.00 to 19.00, from November to March from 9.00 to 17.00.

City of Peace

The ancient city of Myra, the ruins of which are located just 2 km from the center of modern Demre, was founded in the 5th century BC. Two centuries later, this city became the capital of ancient Lycia. According to legend, in the year 60, Christ’s associate, the Apostle Paul, visited here and brought the Christian faith to these lands. During the Byzantine era, Mira was large religious center and flourished for several centuries.

In the 8th century there was a major flood. The water filled the bed of the Miros River flowing through the city with silt and mud. The inhabitants could no longer go down the river to the Mediterranean Sea, so they moved the city to where the quarters of modern Demre are now located.

Gradually, Myra lost its former power, but it remained a place of Christian pilgrimage, and especially many believers came to worship the Lycian tombs. Nowadays Demre is a large tourist centre, which unites several coastal settlements.

How to get there

The Lycian Tombs of Myra are located in the northern part of the city of Demre, next to Karabucak Street, 4.5 km from the Mediterranean coast. From international airport in Antalya you can get here by rented car or taxi.

 

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