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Antalya, known as the “tourism capital of Türkiye,” reaffirms its status as an open-air museum in 2026. Located at the crossroads of the ancient regions of Lycia, Pamphylia, and Pisidia, this area offers travelers a unique journey through millennia — from marble ruins to UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Cultural and historical tourism is currently one of the fastest-growing sectors of the global economy. According to studies, this market is expected to reach an impressive $936.97 billion by 2033. Türkiye holds a leading position thanks to the rich heritage of Anatolia, the cradle of numerous civilizations.

Legends of Lycia: From Democracy to Santa Claus

A journey into the past is best started in the western part of the region, where ancient Lycia once flourished:

• Xanthos and Letoon: The capital of Lycia and its sacred religious center, both included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Inscriptions discovered here helped scholars decipher the mysterious Lycian language.

• Patara: A unique destination that combines history and nature. It is home to the Bouleuterion, where the Lycian League convened — one of the earliest examples of representative democracy in human history. Patara is also known as the birthplace of Saint Nicholas (the prototype of Santa Claus) and is famous for its 18-kilometer beach, a protected nesting area for rare sea turtles.

• Myra: A city that captivates visitors with its rock-cut tombs adorned with intricate reliefs. It is also home to the Church of St. Nicholas, where the bishop performed his miracles.

Treasures of Pamphylia: a triumph of architecture

As you move east, you will immerse yourself in the grandeur of the Roman era:

• Perge: One of the best-preserved cities of the Mediterranean. Visitors are welcomed by monumental colonnades, Roman baths, and a huge stadium that once accommodated 12,000 spectators. In ancient times, the city was governed by remarkable women, and today it remains an important point along the historic “St. Paul’s Way.”

• Side: One of the most important ports of Pamphylia. A walk among its ruins ends at the famous Temple of Apollo. The view of its columns against the sea at sunset has become a symbol of Antalya’s timeless beauty.

Ancient magic after sunset

One of the key advantages of the 2026 summer season is the development of the “Night Museums” initiative. To help visitors avoid the daytime heat, many sites have extended their opening hours:

• Aspendos, Patara, and Side — are open until 22:00.

• Perge, Myra, and the Side Archaeological Museum — are open until 21:00.

This offers a perfect opportunity to see ancient theaters and temples illuminated by artistic lighting, giving the ruins a truly magical atmosphere.

ORIENT

Photo: Embassy of the Republic of Turkey in Turkmenistan