Temple Of Apollon

The word Dydima means twin sister. Like the temple belonging to Apollo, a large temple was built in Ephesus for his sister Artemis, and this temple is now one of the 7 wonders of the world.

🏛️ Temple of Apollo in Didim – Where Myths Meet Architecture

(A must-see highlight among all Didim attractions and one of the top spots for Didim daily tours)

Located just 3.8 kilometers north of Altinkum, in the heart of Didim, the Temple of Apollo is one of the most iconic ancient structures in Aydın. Situated along Atatürk Boulevard, this majestic ruin is easily accessible and frequently included in many day trips from Didim.

🌕 Twin to a Wonder of the World

The word “Didyma” means “twin.” Just as the Temple of Artemis was built in Ephesus for Artemis, the twin sister of Apollo, a grand sanctuary was created here for Apollo, the god of the sun, music, and prophecy. While the Temple of Artemis is one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, the Temple of Apollo in Didim holds its own as the third largest temple in the ancient Greek world, following Artemis in Ephesus and Hera on the island of Samos.

🧭 History and Mythology of the Temple

According to legend, Apollo encountered a shepherd named Brankhos, whom he loved dearly. He taught Brankhos the secrets of prophecy, and Brankhos’s descendants became known as the Brankhids, the ruling priests of this sacred site. The Temple became one of the most powerful oracle centers in antiquity.

From the ancient city of Miletus, the temple could be reached via a Sacred Road, once lined with statues of the Brankhids. Though it suffered damage over the centuries, it was later restored with the help of Alexander the Great.

The temple was designed by Daphnis of Miletus and Paionios of Ephesus (also the architect of the Temple of Artemis). Measuring 110 meters by 50 meters, with columns once rising to 25 meters, it remains a monumental structure — a key stop in many Didim excursions and guided tours in Didim.

🏛️ Visiting Today – A Monument of Grandeur

Even though only a few columns remain standing, the grandeur of the Temple of Apollo is best appreciated in person. Standing beside the towering columns, visitors often realize how immense and awe-inspiring the structure really is — far more impressive than it appears in photographs.

Whether you're interested in Didim activities, architecture, mythology, or just looking for meaningful things to do in Didim, this site is a must.

⏰ Entrance Fee & Visiting Hours

• 🕗 Opening Hours:

  • Summer: 08:30 – 19:00

  • Winter: 08:30 – 17:00

• 🎟️ Entrance Fee:

• 🪪 Museum Card: Accepted (free entry for cardholders)

These details make the Temple of Apollo a great destination for budget-friendly Didim tours and flexible daily excursions from Didim.

📍 Where is the Temple of Apollo and How to Get There?

• 📌 Location: Yenihisar neighborhood, Didim, Aydın

• 🚗 From Altinkum: Head north along Atatürk Boulevard, 5 minutes by car

• 🚌 Included in many Didim daily tours and guided tours in Didim

• 🧭 Also accessible by local taxis, minibuses, or on foot from central Didim

💡 Why Add the Temple of Apollo to Your Didim Itinerary?

This site is perfect for:

• 📸 History and photography lovers

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families and couples

• 🧠 Culture and mythology fans

• 🏛️ Anyone interested in ancient architecture or Didim attractions

• 🚍 Tourists joining tours from Didim or planning what to do in Didim