Sardis Ancient City

Nestled at the foothills of Mount Bozdağ, in the fertile lands of the Bakırçay Valley, the ancient city of Sardis stands as one of the most significant historical treasures of Anatolia. With a history dating back to the 13th century BC, Sardis served as the illustrious capital of the Lydian Kingdom and emerged as one of the most important metropolises of the ancient world. Today, included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List, Sardis is a unique destination for those who follow the traces of ancient civilizations and wish to breathe in the historical atmosphere.

The Wealthy Capital of Lydia

Sardis was founded by the Lydians in the 8th century BC and chosen as their capital. During the golden age of the Lydian Kingdom, Sardis also experienced great prosperity. Known as the place where the world’s first coins were minted, Sardis was also a major trade and cultural center. The Lydians adorned Sardis with magnificent temples, palaces, and monumental structures.

The Grandeur of the Temple of Artemis

One of the most significant structures in Sardis is the Temple of Artemis. Built in the Ionic order, this temple is one of the largest temples in Anatolia. Artemis was one of the most important goddesses of the Lydians, and this temple was dedicated to her. Although only the columns and some fragments of the temple remain today, its majestic structure and historical importance continue to impress visitors.

The Treasures of Croesus

Sardis was also home to the legendary treasures of King Croesus of Lydia. Composed of gold and silver, these treasures symbolized the wealth and power of Lydia. Conquered by the Persians in 546 BC, Sardis also suffered the plunder of these treasures. Today, a part of Croesus’ treasures are exhibited at the British Museum.

Traces of the Ancient World

In addition to the Temple of Artemis and the treasures of Croesus, Sardis is home to many important structures and historical artifacts. The Lydian Royal Palace, the Sardis Theater, the Gymnasium, the Lydian Cemetery, and the Artemision are just some of the structures that reveal the splendor and wealth of ancient Sardis.

Excavations and Archaeological Findings

The ancient city of Sardis has been undergoing archaeological excavations since 1910 by Harvard University. These excavations have unearthed many important artifacts from the Lydian and Roman periods. These artifacts include statues, reliefs, mosaics, pottery, and coins. The artifacts discovered during the excavations are exhibited at the Manisa Museum.

Journey to Sardis

The ancient city of Sardis is located in the Salihli district of Manisa. Transportation is provided by bus or minibus from Manisa to Salihli, and by minibus or taxi from Salihli to Sardis. The entrance fee is 3 € and the museum card is valid. Visiting hours are from 08:30 to 17:30 in summer and from 08:30 to 17:00 in winter.

Experiencing History in Sardis

Visiting the ancient city of Sardis is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the captivating atmosphere of the ancient world and feel the grandeur of the Lydian Kingdom. This ancient city, rich in history and culture, offers visitors an unforgettable experience.