Situated about 30km south of Söke, Herakleia, located in the village of Kapıkırı near Lake Bafa, is a hidden gem steeped in both natural beauty and ancient history. Once a thriving Greek city, Herakleia’s ruins are spread across a dramatic landscape of rock formations and scenic views, making it a captivating site to explore. The village of Kapıkırı is the gateway to Herakleia, where ancient ruins and traditional Turkish life are intricately interwoven.

The majestic Beşparmak Dağı (Five-Fingered Mountain), known in ancient times as Mt. Latmos, overlooks the village and is famously tied to Greek mythology. It was here that the shepherd Endymion, granted eternal youth by Zeus, fell asleep, captured in the gaze of the moon goddess, Selene. Today, the mountain looms above the village, enhancing the mythical aura of the surroundings.

Sights & Activities

Herakleia is an ideal place to immerse yourself in the traditional rhythm of village life. As you wander through Kapıkırı, you’ll encounter women making lace by the road and villagers herding cattle along the main street. The area is also home to beehives and vibrant wildflowers, adding to the idyllic atmosphere. With its laid-back lifestyle, it’s easy to imagine the ancient city’s once-bustling presence.

Key sights include the Temple of Athena, perched on a promontory with stunning views of the lake. Though only three walls remain, the building’s magnificence is still evident in its large, precisely cut stone blocks. Other notable ruins include the Agora, Bouleuterion, and a surprisingly well-preserved theatre cut into the rock. Stretches of city walls from the 3rd century BC are also scattered throughout the village.

The Temple of Endymion is another significant ruin, partially built into the rocks, where the mythological connection to the eternal shepherd endures. Visitors can also explore the Byzantine castle ruins and necropolis near the lakeside.

How to Get There:

Minibuses from Bodrum (€3), Milas (€1.50), and Söke (€2.30) take you to Bafa, where you can easily reach Herakleia via taxi (€5.55) or by calling one of the pensions for a pick-up. Unfortunately, dolmuşes no longer run from Bafa to Herakleia.