Roman road in Cilicia, Roman road and archaeological site in Mersin Province, Turkey.
This ancient road runs northward from Sağlıklı village with stone paving throughout and protective stone barriers lining both sides. It traverses mountainous terrain at 300-400 meters elevation and extends several kilometers through the landscape of southern Turkey.
Built in the 1st century, the road was later repaired under Emperor Caracalla in the 3rd century and served to link the provinces of Cappadocia and Cilicia. This connection was crucial for trade and governance across the empire.
The road stands today as a memorial to Roman and Byzantine burial practices, with inscriptions revealing how officials tracked maintenance work and governed the region. Walking along it, visitors can read carved messages that reflect daily administration and local priorities of that era.
Visit during cooler months when the elevation makes walking comfortable and visibility across the landscape remains clear. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water, as the route is exposed with little shade.
A monumental gate at the southern end marks the boundary of the preserved section and impresses with its solid construction. This structure shows how Roman builders managed to raise such massive work even in steep mountain terrain.
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