A city built on a summit
Termessos, in Antalya's Korkuteli district, is an ancient city built at an elevation of 1,000-1,050 meters on the summit of Mount Güllük (Solymos). Building the city at such a high, rugged location proved decisive for its defense throughout history.
The city that resisted Alexander the Great
Termessos's most notable trait is that it was never conquered throughout history. The natural defensive advantage of its location allowed it to withstand attempts by foreign armies to capture it.
Remains that survive today
The theatre, agora, walls and rock-cut tombs have survived to the present day. The theatre is especially notable for its mountain views — from its seating rows, the silhouette of the Taurus Mountains can be seen.
Visitor information
Termessos is reached via a dedicated road branching off at the 24th kilometer of the Antalya-Korkuteli highway. Since the city lies within Güllük Dağı National Park, the visit doubles as a nature hike.