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The first excavations at the site started in 1904 by Paul Gaudin and
are continuing today under the leadership of both New York and
Oxford Universities.
Evidence shows that Aphrodiais was inhabited from Neolithic times
making it one of the earliest occupied sites in Anatolia.
Aphrodisias was just a shrine for many centuries despite being
situated in a strategically important area and being close to many
major trade routes. The shrine only grew into a town until the
second century BC.
Opening hours:
Aphrodisias is open in summer between 8am and 7pm and in winter
between 8am and 5.30pm.
What to see there?
A path circles the ancient site and by walking it you will be able
to take in all the important parts of the city. These include the
theatre which was constructed in the first century BC. Behind the
stage is a large square which would have originally been surrounded
by columns, it was an important place for meetings in the Roman and
Byzantine city.
South of the square are the Roman baths. Other sights include the
Portico of Tiberius and the Baths of Hadrian where floor tiles and
mosaics can be seen. To the north of the Baths of Hadrian are the
remains of a building commonly known as the Bishop’s Palace because
of its use during Byzantine times however it is more likely to have
started life as the residence of the Roman provinces governor.
Not
much remains of the temple of Aphrodite apart from fourteen columns,
during Byzantine times the building was converted into a basilica in
the fifth century and it has taken a lot of work by archaeologists
to uncover the primary structure. Other things to see in the city
are the School of Philosophy, the stadium and tetrepylon. The
tetrapylon is a gateway with rows of columns supporting pediments
with highly decorated reliefs. It was re-erected recently but dates
from the second century AD. There is a museum in the village of
Geyre which displays statues, friezes and other ancient finds from
Aphrodisius.
Transportation:
The best way to get to Aphrodisias is from the town of Karacasu
which can be reached from Nazilli by dolmuş. From Karacasu visitors
can take a taxi if they do not have their own transport. Tours to
Aphrodisias can also be arranged from many of the pensions in
Pamukale.
Accommodation :
Karacasu does not have any good accommodation so it is best not to
plan to stay the night there but, in Nazilli there is The Metya
Hotel and in the village of Geyre the Chez Mestan Pansiyon and the
Aphrodisias Hotel Restaurant Camping.
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