Uzuncaburç, Archaeological site near Silifke, Turkey.
Uzuncaburç is an archaeological site near Silifke featuring the Temple of Zeus Olbius with approximately two dozen tall columns still standing upright. A former Roman colonnaded street runs north through the site, its stone path lined with the remnants of supporting structures.
The settlement began as the Hellenistic city of Olba and later transformed into Diocaesarea during Roman rule, gaining independence and the right to mint its own coins. This shift reflected the cultural and political changes that followed Roman expansion in the region.
The temple dedicated to Tyche and scattered sarcophagi feature carved reliefs that show how local artisans blended Greek and Roman artistic styles into their own expression.
The site is open daily, though hours shift with the seasons and weather patterns. Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months when the sun exposure is intense.
A five-story Hellenistic tower stands about 22 meters high and functioned as a lookout point over the surrounding landscape. A Roman road still runs behind this tower and passes through the modern village, creating an unusual overlap between ancient pathways and contemporary settlement.
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