Myra Ancient City – Demre, Antalya
Myra was one of the six most important cities of the Lycian League (a metropolis with 3 voting rights). The city is famous both for its magnificent rock tombs and for being the place where Saint Nicholas, known to the world as "Santa Claus," served as bishop.
History Myra, whose name means "Place of the Supreme Mother Goddess," has existed since the 5th century BC. In the Byzantine period, it became the religious and administrative capital of Lycia. Saint Paul changed ships here on his way to Rome.
Key Structures
- Rock Tombs (Sea Necropolis): This is Myra's most iconic view. It consists of dozens of tombs carved into a steep cliff face to mimic wooden house architecture. These relief-adorned tombs reflect the Lycian belief of making the dead feel "at home."
- Roman Theatre: Located right at the foot of the rock tombs, it is a well-preserved theatre with a capacity of approximately 11,000. The stage building and mask reliefs are noteworthy.
- Church of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus Museum): Located in the center of the ancient city (modern Demre). It is believed that St. Nicholas's tomb is here. With its wall frescoes and floor mosaics, it is a very important pilgrimage center for the Christian world.
- Andriake Harbor: The port city 5 km south of Myra. Here lies a massive Granarium (Grain Warehouse - now the Museum of Lycian Civilizations).
Sources
- Republic of Turkey Ministry of Culture and Tourism
- Museum of Lycian Civilizations
- Wikipedia – Myra