The Temple Of Apollo in Didyma, Turkey is a major landmark for the surrounding touristic resorts of Altinkum and Didim. It is on the Aegean coast and receives thousands of travelers and tourists every year. In historic times the area was referred to as Didyma and even today signs of Greek history are everywhere.
This is not the only Temple of Apollo. There are four temples dedicated to Apollo in Greece, three in Italy and five in Turkey. I saw the temple of Apollo in Side about six years ago and to be honest, it did not exactly bowl me off my feet. Instead I ended up in the nearest bar admiring their art work.
About the Temple of Apollo in Didyma
It dates from Ancient Greek times and is located at the entrance to the resort. You won’t need for a full day to explore it, and it would be wise not to go midday when the sun is blaring. If you have already seen Ephesus in Selcuk, the Temple Of Apollo pails in comparison however it is still worth a visit.
Excavation on the Temple Of Apollo in Didyma first started in 1904. It was discovered that before the Ionians ruled the area, the temple was a cult worshiping oracle center, where sacrifices were made.
It was connected to the ancient city of Miletus via a long paved road known these days as the sacred route. Construction was never fully completed but some historians have said that if it had been, the Temple of Apollo would have rivaled the Delhi in Greece.
Over time, the area fell under the rule of the Persians, who were beaten by Alexander the Great and he attempted to finish construction. Eventually by 385 AD, no-oone worshiped the gods anymore and when Christianity came to the area, a church was built within the boundary walls.
After you have taken a walk around the temple, head across to the souvenirs shops to pick up worthy and tacky souvenirs for your loved ones back home. There are also three traditional restaurants serving a wide range of local and international cuisine.
My recommendation is to explore the Temple in the late afternoon, settle down in one of the restaurant terraces and watch the sun go down over the temple. Alternatively, if you have no plans to come to Turkey, head to the British history museum where some temples and column heads are resting.
Apollo Temple Didyma, Turkey
- Entrance fee is 10 lira
- Opening times are 8am to 7pm from April to October. 8.30am to 5.30am November to March
- Official Government website ( In English)
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