Apollonia ad Rhyndacum, Archaeological site in Gölyazı, Turkey
Apollonia ad Rhyndacum is an archaeological site spread across the mainland and a peninsula, featuring ancient temples, public buildings, and fortification remains near Lake Uluabat. The structures are distributed across both areas and reflect the urban planning of an ancient community.
The settlement was founded in the 5th century BC and maintained its importance as a regional center throughout Greek, Roman, and Byzantine rule until 1342. Its longevity across these periods demonstrates its strategic value over many centuries.
The coins discovered here display images of Apollo, Zeus, Demeter, and Artemis, revealing the religious beliefs that shaped daily life in this ancient settlement.
The site is open for exploration and guided tours are available through the local tourism office in Gölyazı village. It helps to arrange visits in advance to access both the mainland structures and the island temple remains.
A sacred island called Kız Ada holds temple remains dedicated to Apollo, showing the religious importance given to this water-surrounded settlement. This isolated island shrine was deliberately positioned to honor the gods.
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