Phaselis is the ancient Lycian city, archaeological site and museum located in Tekirova resort, about 11,5 km. from central Kemer. Phaselis archaeological site, with its impressive historical remains, wonderful beaches and picnic areas, is one of the most visited sights in Kemer.
Phaselis Archaeological Site
From the entrance gate of the Phaselis Archaeological Site, there is about 1 km. road to the coast. Midibuses (operate from Antalya, central Kemer and Tekirova) leave the visitors at the entrance, so visitors coming by midibuses should walk about 10 mins. to reach to the coast.
History of Phaselis
It is believed that the ancient city of Phaselis was founded by the colonists from Rhodes in the 7th century B.C. The Taurus Mountain range were lying just behind the coasts and that has made the city very covenient for timber transfer from the mountains to the city and the ships. During the era, Phaselis has been an important trading city and the main center for commerce between Egypt, Syria, Greece and other Mediterranean countries. Phaselis has three ports, on the north, on the northeast and on the southwest coast of the peninsula which are all natural harbours.
Phaselis has been under the control of many Rulers that include; Persian rule in the 5th century B.C., Carian rule in the 4th century B.C., Alexander the Great’s march to the city in 333 B.C., Lycian Federation rule in the 2nd century B.C. and finally the Roman Empire rule in 43 B.C. During the era of the Roman Empire that has continued for 300 years, the city has been in a rebuilding period. After the visit of the Roman Emperor Hadrian, the city has become part of the Byzantine Empire in the 5th and 6th centuries and was included in the council of Chalcedon in 451.
After being under prolonged attacks by the pirates and people from outside the Mediterranean, Phaselis has been through a brief decline in the 7th century. During 8th century, Phaselis again has become a rich city under the rule of the Byzantines. The remains of the City Walls and several building ruins from this period can be seen throughout the city.
From that period till Phaselis was conquered by the Seljuks in 1158, the city has lost its being an important trade center. It was because of the weakening of the Byzantine Empire and the Antalya and Alanya horbors’ taking the lead in trading. And after by the 13th century, Phaselis was completely abandoned. According to the historians, the main Goddess of the city was Athena, Goddess of war and wisdom.
The Remains
The Harbor Street (Liman Caddesi) is the main street of the Phaselis ancient city. The street is flanked by steps and sidewalks and the street connects the Central harbor (beach) to the South harbor (beach). It is the most popular spots on Phaselis that you’ll see many guided tourist groups there taking photos, admiring the remnants. Along the Harbor Street, on both sides, you will see few remains belonging to the original Hellenistic period as well as the majority of the present day remains belonging to the Roman and Byzantine periods.
Along the Harbor Street, via the stairs, you may see the Phaselis Theatre and Acropolis. The Phaselis amphitheater is a small but typical Hellenistic one that was built into the slope of the Acropolis hill. Remains of a small Byzantine Basilica and two baths also situated at the city square along the Harbor Street.
After the main entrance to the city, you may see the oldest City Wall. And also you may see the Necropolis (Cemetery) of the city behind the North harbor. There are also remains of three Agoras (markets) of the city.
The Roman Aquaduct that you may easily see it behind the central harbur, belonging to Hellenistic period, is one of the most impressive remains of Phaselis.
Phaselis Beaches
As for beaches in Phaselis, there three harbors with beaches in Phaselis that include; the North, Central and the South harbor beaches. You can chose the beach you want to spend the beach day out by controlling the waves and the wind.
The North harbor beach is the second largest one that is close to the entrance. The coast is more calm than the other ones. The sea is crystal clear and pebbled.
The Central harbor beach is the most peaceful but small one. The harbor is surrounded by circular stones and trees which makes you feel like you are in a natural pool. The water temperature is like about a couple of degrees higher than in Kemer.
The South harbor beach is the largest and the most crowded. People mostly prefer the South harbor as there are beach facilities like WC and showers in South harbor. You can read more and see the Phaselis beach photos from our page >> Phaselis beaches
If you want to have a peaceful day in the company of the ancient city remains, enchanting nature, isolated bay and excellent beaches, rather than staying at your hotel, a visit to the Phaselis is also one of the best things to do in Kemer, Antalya.
There is also a picnic and parking zone for daily visitors. You only pay on the entrance and have a chance to spend a whole day in Phaselis.
There is a also a cafe situated close to the Central harbor that you may buy drinks and snacks from that cafe.
Phaselis Visiting Hours & Admissions
Opening Hours
Open every day from 08.30-19.30 between April-October and from 08.30 to 17.30 between November-March
Ticket Price
45 TRY
Please double check admissions and visiting hours from muze.gov.tr
How to Get There?
Location
Phaselis is located about 11,5 km. from central Kemer and 50 km. from Antalya 5M Migros.
Access from Kemer
Getting Phaselis from Kemer and Antalya is easy. Phaselis is situated between Camyuva and Tekirova resorts. From central Kemer you should go to the Kumluca direction.
You can take the midibuses from Antalya, central Kemer and Tekirova passing from the Phaselis stop. There is a parking area in Phaselis so you may visit Phaselis by your private/rented car.
Contact Details
Address: Tekirova, Kemer
Tel: +90 242 821 45 06