Priene

An Architecture Wonder Accompanied by Pine Fragrances

🏛️ Visiting the Ancient City of Priene

(One of the hidden gems among Didim attractions)

If you’re exploring the region as part of Didim daily tours or looking for unique tours from Didim, the ancient city of Priene is a perfect stop. Located just a short drive away, it offers an ideal experience for those interested in history, architecture, and nature. This site is a must for anyone wondering what to do in Didim beyond the beach.

From the Söke–Bodrum road, take the Güllübahçe turnoff at the 5th km where you’ll see the sign for Priene. If you’re coming via daily excursions from Didim, your route will likely go through Atburgazı, with a left turn at the 21st km. There is a parking area available at the entrance for those arriving independently.

Upon arrival, visitors are welcomed with a detailed site map, and each structure is marked with signs. Books in various languages are also available for purchase at the gate, perfect for those taking guided tours in Didim or exploring on their own.

🏔️ Priene: A Blend of History and Nature

This ancient Ionian city lies at the foot of Mount Samsun (Mykale). Though the flat plain surrounding it is now used for agriculture, it was once a bay — Priene had two harbors. Over time, the Menderes River silted the area, transforming the once coastal city into an inland ruin.

What we see today is a perfectly planned Hippodamian grid-style city, rebuilt around 350 BC. It was under the influence of Alexander the Great, the Kingdom of Pergamon, and Rome, and it retained religious importance during the Byzantine period until it was abandoned in the 12th century.

If you're booking Didim excursions or looking for educational day trips from Didim, Priene is one of the most historically significant stops in the area.

🧭 Highlights of the Site – Ideal for Day Trips from Didim

Whether you're interested in ancient cities or just looking for peaceful Didim activities, Priene is a top pick among the best excursions in Didim. Key features include:

• 💧 Cisterns: Located near the entrance, once used for storing the city's water.

• 🛕 Temple of the Egyptian Gods: A lesser-known yet fascinating feature.

• 🎭 Ancient Theater: With a capacity of 5,000 people and VIP stone seats reserved for officials and the king. A beautiful example of classical Greek design.

• ✝️ Byzantine Church: Just beside the theater, it marks the city’s later importance during the Christian era.

• 🏋️‍♂️ Upper Gymnasion & Bath Complex: Found south of the church, where athletes once trained.

• 🌾 Demeter Sanctuary: Located at the base of the Acropolis.

• 🏛️ Temple of Athena: The city’s spiritual heart, with several reconstructed columns and altar remains. Original reliefs are displayed in the Istanbul Archaeological Museum.

• 🔥 Bouleuterion: The meeting hall for civic decisions, seating 640 people. It once held a sacred fire that burned continuously.

• 🐟 Agora: Featuring a fish and meat market and residential buildings on both sides.

• 🧱 Lower Gymnasion & Stadium: Accessible via the southwestern stairway from the agora; the stadium retains some of its seating.

📌 Why Priene Should Be on Your Didim Itinerary

📍 Priene is a must-see for anyone planning day trips from Didim, especially those who want to combine Didim attractions with less-touristy, peaceful places. It's perfect for:

• 📸 Photography and history lovers

• 🚶‍♂️ Walkable cultural exploration

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families and small groups

• 🧠 Educational and guided tours in Didim

Whether you're booking your travel through a local agency or joining one of the many Didim daily tours, this site is a brilliant answer to the question: What to do in Didim?