Laertes Ancient City
1 / 10

Laertes Ancient City

3.5
·11 reviews·, Türkiye

Discover the ancient city of Laertes, a historical gem nestled in the Taurus Mountains, offering a raw glimpse into Roman and Byzantine past.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant temperatures for hiking

CrowdLow
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Laertes Ancient City

Laertes Ancient City

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant temperatures for hiking

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the ancient city of Laertes, a historical gem nestled in the Taurus Mountains, offering a raw glimpse into Roman and Byzantine past.

3.5
(11 reviews)

"The journey is tough, but the ancient ruins and mountain views are worth the effort. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Use Correct Map Link

Ensure you have the accurate Google Maps link to avoid confusion. :world_map:

🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The terrain can be rough; comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient City Ruins

Ancient City Ruins

Explore the remnants of a city dating back to the 7th century BC, with significant structures from Roman and Byzantine periods.

Reddit
Roman-Era Structures

Roman-Era Structures

Discover temples dedicated to Zeus, Apollo, and Caesar, alongside remnants of an agora and bathhouse.

Reddit
Scenic Mountain Views

Scenic Mountain Views

Enjoy panoramic vistas of the Taurus Mountains and the Mediterranean coast from this elevated historical site.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Verify Your Location

Double-check your GPS! Many visitors report the initial location being incorrect. Use the provided correct map link to ensure you reach the actual Laertes Ancient City site. Reddit

Prepare for the Trek

Accessing Laertes involves a hike. Be ready for uneven terrain and potentially rough roads. Consider sturdy footwear and water, especially during warmer months. Reddit

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Pleasant temperatures for hiking
Crowd
Low
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Milder weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

⭐️Ancient cities of Antalya 📍Apollon Temple, Side / Aspendos Theatre, Antalya ⠀ #alanya #antalya #side #apollo #antikkenti #travel #fyp #Summer
@hello_alanya_
6.8K likes • 76.7K views

🎯 Use Correct Map Link

Ensure you have the accurate Google Maps link to avoid confusion. Reddit :world_map:

🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The terrain can be rough; comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

Antik kent yüzme #lymra#antik #antalya #antikkent #History #yüzmek #water #gezilecekyerler #öneçıkar #bridge
@ersn.earth
3.7K likes • 189.9K views
Antalya’da mutlaka görmeniz gereken 13 rota! 🗺✨ Antalya’nın tarih dolu sokaklarından, serin sularına… Gezilecek o kadar çok yer var ki! İşte size mini rota önerisi: 👇 ✅ Alanya Kalesi ✅ Ehmedek Kalesi ✅ Kızılkule ✅ Alanya Tersanesi ✅ Damlataş Mağarası ✅ Alanya Müzesi ✅ Kleopatra Plajı ✅ Dim Mağarası ✅ Dim Çayı ✅ Manavgat Şelalesi ✅ Side Antik Kenti ✅ Side Müzesi ✅ Aspendos Antik Tiyatrosu Valiziniz...
@gezensuluk
1.7K likes • 137.1K views

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities. Reddit

🚗 Consider Vehicle Type

Some roads can be challenging; a robust vehicle might be beneficial. Reddit

Alanya Kalesi Zeytin Dalı Cafe #gurme #yemek #antalya #yöresel
@muratatay
1.6K likes • 120.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Use Correct Map Link

Ensure you have the accurate Google Maps link to avoid confusion. Reddit :world_map:

🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes

The terrain can be rough; comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring. Reddit :athletic_shoe:

💧 Bring Plenty of Water

Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months, as there are limited facilities. Reddit

🚗 Consider Vehicle Type

Some roads can be challenging; a robust vehicle might be beneficial. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond Ruins

The surrounding nature offers beautiful hiking opportunities. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3.5
(11 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Laertes Ancient City offers a raw, historical experience with stunning natural surroundings, but visitors must be prepared for challenging access and limited facilities. The site's authenticity is a major draw, though some find the lack of restoration and difficult roads disappointing. Reddit

"This location is wrong if you looking for Ancient city Laertes.

The correct location:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/k87vpdnA9PiDWyLq6"

John Yossarian

"Love is different in Leartest. A great holiday lying underground. There is no place left that treasure hunters haven't dug. In fact, the men were still digging while we were visiting. The watchman they put as a watchman got tired of coughing to give the news 🤦‍♂️😄"

Fazıl Ahmet

"Laertes ( Леатрес, Лаэрт) древний город 7 век до н.э.
Первое упоминание о Лаэрте было найдено на постаменте статуи, датируемой VII веком до нашей эры и написанной с трех сторон на финикийском языке, которая выставлена сейчас в музее Аланьи. Город расположен в местности, подходящей для обороны, на высоте 850 метров над уровнем моря, у подножия склона, возвышающегося в устье долины в Таврских горах , в 25 километрах к востоку от Аланьи. Этот регион древности назывался Суровая Киликия.
Другие упоминания о городе Леартес, относятся к периодам древнего Рима (44 BC – 476 AD) и Византийского периода (330 AD - 1453 AD). Поскольку важнейшие строительные работы города проводились во времена правления Тиберия Клавдия (41-54 гг. н. э.), этот период считается одним из самых ярких периодов развития города , в это время был построен храм во имя Клавдия и город поменял свое имя на Леартес.
И хотя Леартес находится в 5 км от моря, он имел свой порт Наулу, построенный тоже по приказу Клавдия. Наула был оживленным приморским полисом, нынешний Махмутлар был лишь ее портовым районом Наулы. Здесь останавливался во время своих походов Помпей.
Среди руин римского периода, сохранившихся от города, есть сторожевые башни, полукруглая зона отдыха, используемая людьми для общения на агоре, улице Императоров, одеоне или театре; Можно пересчитать храмы, построенные во имя Зевса , Аполлона и Цезаря , агору, баню и некрополь. Город пережил свой самый яркий период с I по III век нашей эры. Солдатский диплом, найденный при раскопках и выставленный в музее Аланьи, проливает свет на жизнь в прошлом. В документе, датированном 138 годом нашей эры, в котором упоминается имя губернатора Памфилии, сирийский солдат увольняется после 25 лет почётной службы и получает римское гражданство и право жениться на женщине из Памфилии. Потом пришли киликийские пираты и город опустел
Пока никаких реставрационных работ не проводится, в отличие от такого-же древнего города Сиедра.
Мы оставили машину на трассе Махмутлар -Ташкент рядом с указателем на Леартес и пошли пешком, любуясь по дороге на горы, море, Махмутлар и Каргыджак (это грунтовка, но можно заехать на машине или скутере). Примерно через 2 км мы увидели фундамент от какой-то бытовки, левее от которого растет одинокое дерево. Вот слева от этого дерева есть тропинка, которая ведет к руинам. Мы пошли с другой стороны от фундамента и нам пришлось продираться по кустам. Рекомендую после осмотра руин прогуляться дальше по дороге. Здесь очень много лиственных деревьев – клены, дубы и т.д. А еще впечатлили кипарисы –свечки очень приличной высота. Сначала мы подумали, что здесь есть много источников воды , но на обратном пути на нас наползли облака и стало понятно откуда здесь влага для лиственных деревьев, гора просто «ловит» тучи."

Svetlana svetlay62

What People Like

Authentic historical site
Beautiful mountain scenery
Off-the-beaten-path experience

What People Dislike

Incorrect location data
Rough access roads
Limited facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most crucial step is using the correct map link, as many visitors report being led to the wrong location. Reddit The site is located in the Taurus Mountains, about 25 km east of Alanya. Access often involves a drive on mountain roads, and some may find them challenging. Reddit Consider a vehicle suitable for rougher terrain or be prepared for a hike from a designated parking area. Reddit

Public transport directly to Laertes is not readily available. It's best to arrange private transportation, such as a taxi or rental car, and ensure you have the correct GPS coordinates. Reddit

Reviews suggest the roads can be terrible and rough, so a sturdy vehicle is recommended. Reddit Some visitors mention parking on the road and hiking the rest of the way. Reddit

Laertes Ancient City is approximately 25 kilometers east of Alanya. Reddit

While some parts may be accessible by car, the final approach to the ruins can be rough. Many visitors park and walk the remaining distance. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Information regarding specific ticket prices or entry fees for Laertes Ancient City is not widely available in recent traveler accounts. It's advisable to check locally or with your accommodation for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Specific opening hours for Laertes Ancient City are not consistently published. As it's an archaeological site, it's generally accessible during daylight hours. Reddit

While some ancient sites in the region have entrance fees, there's no clear indication of a formal fee for Laertes in recent visitor feedback. Reddit

It's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to appreciate the ruins. Early mornings or late afternoons can offer pleasant temperatures. Reddit

Official guided tours are not commonly mentioned. Exploring independently or with a guide hired locally is the usual approach. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

You can explore the ruins of a city that flourished from the 7th century BC through Roman and Byzantine periods. Key features include temples, an agora, a bathhouse, and watchtowers. Reddit The site offers a glimpse into ancient urban planning and architecture. Reddit

While there are significant ruins, the site has been subject to treasure hunting, and restoration efforts are not as extensive as in some other major ancient cities like Side. Reddit It offers a more raw and less commercialized experience. Reddit

The terrain within Laertes is uneven and can be challenging, with remnants of ancient streets and structures. Be prepared for walking on rocky and natural surfaces. Reddit

Facilities at Laertes Ancient City are very limited or non-existent. It's recommended to come prepared with water and snacks. Reddit

Yes, Laertes offers unique photographic opportunities with its ancient ruins set against a natural mountain backdrop. The ruggedness of the site can be very photogenic. Reddit

🎫 🌳 Nature & Surroundings

The area surrounding Laertes is characterized by lush greenery, including olive trees, pines, and oaks. Reddit The mountain setting provides a beautiful natural landscape to complement the historical ruins. Reddit

Yes, the area around Laertes is suitable for hiking. Visitors can explore the mountain paths and enjoy the natural scenery. Reddit Some suggest continuing the walk beyond the ruins for further exploration. Reddit

While Laertes is inland, the coast is not far. Aytap Bay, mentioned in relation to ancient sites, offers coastal access. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Visiting Laertes Ancient City with children requires careful planning. The rugged terrain and lack of facilities mean it's best suited for families with older children who can handle walking on uneven surfaces and appreciate historical exploration. Reddit Ensure you bring plenty of snacks, water, and sun protection. The journey itself, with potentially rough roads, might also be a consideration for very young children. Reddit However, for adventurous families seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, the historical ruins and natural beauty can be engaging.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers

Laertes Ancient City is an excellent destination for those who enjoy combining history with outdoor activity. The site is nestled in the Taurus Mountains, offering beautiful hiking opportunities. Reddit The trails leading to and around the ruins provide stunning views of the natural landscape. Visitors can explore the ancient city and then continue their trek through the surrounding forests, enjoying the flora and fauna. Reddit The journey to the site itself can be part of the hiking experience if you choose to park and walk. TikTok mentions Aytap Ancient City, also accessible by road and sea, suggesting the area is rich in natural and historical exploration.

🏛️ History Buffs and Archaeology Enthusiasts

For those fascinated by ancient history, Laertes offers a unique and less commercialized glimpse into the past. Unlike more developed sites, Laertes retains a raw, authentic feel, with many ruins still in a state of archaeological exploration. Reddit You can explore remnants of temples, an agora, and residential areas, imagining life in this ancient city. The historical context, spanning from the 7th century BC through Roman and Byzantine periods, provides a rich tapestry for study. Reddit The site's connection to figures like Emperor Claudius adds another layer of historical intrigue. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Laertes

Laertes, an ancient city located in the Taurus Mountains near Alanya, boasts a rich history stretching back to the 7th century BC. Reddit Its strategic elevated position, around 850 meters above sea level, made it a defensible settlement. The city experienced its most vibrant period of development from the 1st to 3rd centuries AD, particularly during the reign of Emperor Claudius, who is credited with significant construction projects, including a temple in his name and renaming the city to Laertes. Reddit This era saw the construction of temples dedicated to Zeus, Apollo, and Caesar, as well as an agora, baths, and residential areas.

The city also had a port at Naula, also developed under Claudius, which was a vital link for trade and communication. Reddit Laertes survived through the Byzantine period, though its prominence waned. Unlike more heavily restored sites, Laertes offers a more authentic, less commercialized experience, with many ruins still in a state of discovery and preservation. Reddit

Archaeological findings at Laertes, such as a Roman soldier's diploma displayed in the Alanya Museum, shed light on the daily lives and administrative structures of the time. Reddit The site's history is intertwined with the broader Lycian and Pamphylian regions, reflecting the cultural and political shifts of the ancient Mediterranean world. Its remote location and rugged terrain contribute to its unique atmosphere, making it a destination for those seeking a deeper connection with history away from the usual tourist crowds.

Navigating to Laertes: A Traveler's Perspective

Reaching Laertes Ancient City can be an adventure in itself, with many visitors highlighting the challenges of navigation. The primary issue reported is incorrect GPS locations, leading travelers astray. Reddit It's crucial to use a verified, correct map link to ensure you arrive at the actual site. The journey often involves driving on mountain roads that can be rough and difficult, prompting recommendations for vehicles with higher clearance or four-wheel drive capabilities. Reddit Some travelers opt to park their cars on the main road and complete the final stretch on foot, enjoying the scenic hike through the natural landscape.

The walk to the ruins is described as beautiful, passing through areas with abundant trees like pines and oaks. Reddit While the path can be uneven, the natural beauty of the surroundings, including mountain vistas, is a significant draw. Visitors should be prepared for a moderate hike, carrying water and wearing appropriate footwear. Reddit The experience of reaching the site is often described as rewarding, offering a sense of discovery away from more accessible tourist spots. TikTok mentions access via both road and sea for Aytap Ancient City, which is in the vicinity, suggesting varied access points for the broader historical region.

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