The ancient city of Knidos is located on Tekirburnu, 35 kilometers away from Datca, 110 kilometers from central Marmaris and on the farthest west side of Datca peninsula. The area is a fascinating archaeological site that provides a glimpse into the history and culture of the ancient world. Although it is some far away from central Marmaris, Knidos takes good number of daily visits each year. A visit to Knidos is highly recommend for anyone interested in history, archaeology, or simply appreciating the beauty of ancient ruins.
Fast Facts
- Knidos is an ancient city located on the Datca Peninsula in Turkey.
- The city was founded in the 4th century BC and was an important center of trade and culture.
- Knidos is famous for its impressive architecture and the famous statue of Aphrodite, which was located in the city’s temple.
- The city was also home to the astronomer Eudoxus and the physician Euryphon.
- Knidos is open to visitors year-round and can be easily reached by car or boat.
History
Knidos was founded in the 4th century BC and quickly became an important center of trade and culture in the ancient world. The city was strategically located on the Datca Peninsula, which made it an ideal location for trade with the neighboring city-states.
Knidos was also known for its impressive architecture, including the famous Temple of Aphrodite. The temple housed the statue of Aphrodite, which was one of the most famous works of art in the ancient world. The statue was said to be so beautiful that it drew crowds of admirers from all over the Mediterranean.
The city was also home to a number of famous scholars, including the astronomer Eudoxus and the physician Euryphon. Eudoxus was known for his work on astronomy and was one of the first people to propose a heliocentric model of the solar system. Euryphon was a physician who wrote extensively on medical topics and was known for his innovative treatments.
Knidos was eventually conquered by Alexander the Great in the 4th century BC and later fell under the control of the Roman Empire. The city declined in importance over time and was eventually abandoned in the 7th century AD.
What to See
Knidos is one of the best promenade area of the region where the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea meet. Knidos has a artificial formation of in and out harbors. The ancient city spread by a four kilometers of city walls.
The site was built partly on the mainland and partly on the Island of Triopion. Hippadomas is a well planned city with right angel intersecting roads. The historian Strabo describes Knidos as the city that was built for the most beautiful goddess, Aphrodite, on the most beautiful region of the peninsula.
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You can explore the many impressive ruins that are scattered throughout the site. The ancient city has two theatres with the capacity of 20.000 and 5.000 people. The theatre at Knidos is one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in Turkey. It could seat up to 5,000 people and was used for a variety of performances, including plays and musical concerts.
The agora was the center of civic life in ancient Knidos. It was a bustling marketplace where traders from all over the Mediterranean would come to buy and sell goods.
The necropolis at Knidos is one of the largest in the ancient world. Visitors can explore the many tombs and burial chambers that are scattered throughout the site.
Knidos was the most important port city of Caria. Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantium traces can be seen in the region. The walls on the outskirts of the mountain forms a natural defense shield surrounding the Acropolis. The Odeon, the small theatre, the big theatre, the Korint temple and the lion statues are the remaining remnants in the region.
The Temple of Aphrodite is an impressive temple was one of the most famous structures in the ancient world. Although the temple itself is mostly in ruins, visitors can still see the base of the temple and imagine the impressive statue of Aphrodite that once stood inside.
There is an outstanding panorama on the hill. From one side you see the Aegean Sea, on the side you see the Mediterranean Sea. The sea is clean and the panorama is outstanding in the region. Beaches in the area is also worth swimming. There is a restaurant in Knidos which is serving for yachts and gulets during summer times.
Visiting Information
Location
The ancient city of Knidos is located at the western tip of the Datca Peninsula, near the modern-day village of Tekir. It’s approximately 100 kmrom Marmaris and 185 km.
Opening Hours
The site is open every day from 8:30 am to 7 pm from April to October, and from 8:30 am to 5 pm from November to March.
Tickets
please check muze.gov.tr for up to date tickets and visiting hours information
Guided/Daily Tours
Visiting Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes and clothes suitable for the weather, as the site involves a lot of walking and climbing.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially during the summer months.
- Consider hiring a guide to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views and ancient ruins.
How to Get there?
Knidos is situated about 110 km. from central Marmaris. There is no public transport to Knidos from Marmaris.
You should rent a car and take a day trip to Knidos. Before you arrive the Datca junction on the Marmaris-Datca road, you will the sign of Knidos. It is located on the far end of the peninsula. There are taxi boats and midi buses from Datca as well.