Adriake Ancient City: A Forgotten Port of Lycia

Located near today’s Demre district in Antalya, Türkiye, Adriake Ancient City—also known as Andriake—is a captivating archaeological site that was once a vital port of the Lycian League. Tucked beside the Çayağzı Harbor and surrounded by Mediterranean pine forests, Adriake offers visitors a peaceful and authentic encounter with antiquity, far from the crowds of more well-known ruins.

The origins of Adriake date back to the 4th century BCE, but the city flourished particularly during the Roman and Byzantine periods. Its strategic coastal location made it a hub of commerce, especially for the export of agricultural products like grain, olive oil, and wine. As the official harbor of the nearby city of Myra (modern-day Demre), Adriake played a central role in connecting Lycia to trade routes across the Mediterranean.

One of Adriake’s most prominent and best-preserved structures is the Horrea (Granarium)—a massive Roman-era grain storage facility. This large rectangular building with thick stone walls once safeguarded thousands of tons of grain and now serves a new purpose: it houses the Museum of Lycian Civilizations. Inside, visitors can explore detailed exhibitions that cover the daily life, architecture, religion, and maritime history of the Lycian people.

Wandering through Adriake, you will come across remnants of Roman baths, ancient piers, shops, cisterns, and even a synagogue—evidence of the multi-ethnic and multi-religious nature of this thriving port. One of the most evocative features is the Byzantine-era churches and Christian iconography carved into stones, signaling the city’s religious transformation over the centuries.

The site also bears marks of Lycian funerary culture, with rock-cut tombs and sarcophagi scattered across the surrounding hills. Inscriptions in both Greek and Latin provide valuable insights into the inhabitants’ social and political life. Some of these inscriptions refer to Roman emperors and governors, confirming Adriake’s importance in imperial logistics and administration.

Adriake is also deeply connected with the legacy of Saint Nicholas, the historical bishop of nearby Myra and the inspiration behind Santa Claus. During the early Christian period, the port served as an embarkation point for pilgrims traveling to the Holy Land. This spiritual connection adds a layer of religious and cultural significance to the ancient city, making it a site of interest not only for historians and archaeologists but also for faith-based tourism.

In recent years, Adriake has been the subject of systematic excavations and restoration efforts led by Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Walkways, informative signs, and protective structures have been added to enhance the visitor experience without compromising the site’s authenticity. The museum within the granary is an especially well-curated gem, offering interactive displays and artifacts such as amphorae, coins, maritime tools, and statues.

Unlike heavily commercialized ruins, Adriake provides a serene atmosphere where one can truly connect with the ancient world. The sounds of waves and birdcalls mix with the scent of wild herbs, creating an almost meditative experience. This harmony between history and nature makes Adriake a hidden treasure for travelers seeking both education and reflection.

Whether you’re a fan of ancient history, a seeker of spiritual heritage, or simply someone drawn to off-the-beaten-path destinations, Adriake Ancient City offers a deeply rewarding visit. As you stroll through its silent corridors and weathered stones, you’ll find yourself walking in the footsteps of merchants, pilgrims, and sailors who once shaped the destiny of Lycia’s shores.