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From Gobekli Tepe to the Temple of Artemis, the temples in Turkey give us a glimpse into the human history and evolution of religion. Turkey is home to some of the world’s most significant historical and religious sites, with its temples standing as monuments of ancient myths, sacred practices, and architectural brilliance. From the famous temples, deeply intertwined with history and myth, to the largest and oldest ones, these sites provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. Whether you’re visiting the oldest temple in Turkey or exploring the largest temple, each of these sites offers something special to travellers.
10 Temples In Turkey
Whether you’re interested in mythology, architecture, or ancient religion, Turkey temples have it all. Here are some of the most notable temples in Turkey:
1. Temple Of Artemis
Photo: Roy Egloff / Wikimedia Commons
The Temple of Artemis at Ephesus is one of the oldest temples in Turkey, dating back to the 6th century BC. Once one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, this temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis is an iconic symbol of ancient Greek architecture and religion. Though only a few ruins remain, visitors can still get a sense of the grandeur of this magnificent temple.
Location: Ephesus, Selçuk, Izmir
Cost: $40 / ₹2,900
2. Temple Of Apollo
Photo: Joseph Kranak / Wikimedia Commons
Known for its massive ruins, the Temple of Apollo in Didyma is one of the most famous temples in Turkey. It was once an oracle centre dedicated to Apollo, similar to the one in Delphi, and its remains reflect the grandeur and mysticism of the ancient world. Visitors can still view the impressive columns and sacred spaces built during the conquest of Alexander the Great, providing a vivid picture of the temple’s former splendour.
Location: Didyma, Aydın Province
Cost: $5 / ₹370
3. Temple Of Zeus
Photo: HALUK COMERTEL / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the ancient city of Pergamon, the Temple of Zeus is considered one of the oldest temples. While it is called the Temple of Zeus, it is actually just an altar that was dedicated to the chief deity of Greek mythology, Zeus. Though much of it was transported to the Pergamon Museum in Berlin, the remaining parts of the temple still hold significant archaeological value, especially its foundations and columns.
Location: Bergama, Izmir Province
Cost: $11/ ₹800
4. The Sun Temple Of Hattusa
Photo: Murat Özsoy 1958 / Wikimedia Commons
The Sun Temple of Hattusa is an impressive archaeological site dating back to the Hittite era. Though less known, it is one of the most important temples due to its historical and cultural significance. Hattusa was the capital city of the Hittite Kingdom, making this an important religious place for the ancient Hittites. This temple was dedicated to the Sun goddess and offers a unique look into the religious practices of the Hittites.
Location: Hattusa, Çorum Province
Cost: $7 / ₹510
5. Temple Of Athena
Photo: David Spender / Wikimedia Commons
Built somewhere between 540 BC and 530 BC, this temple offers a breathtaking view of the Aegean Sea. Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the temple remains a symbol of Greek influence on Turkish soil, attracting visitors for its picturesque location and historical depth. A visit to the Athena temple in Assos Acropolis takes you on a journey through time as you walk the paths walked by thousands, centuries before you.
Location: Assos, Canakkale Province
Cost: $6 / ₹440
6. Temple Of Apollo
Photo: Saffron Blaze / Wikimedia Commons
This popular temple in Turkey is located in the resort town of Side. The Temple of Apollo is dedicated to the Greek god of the sun, poetry, music, and prophecy. The ancient temple was built in the Roman era in 150 AD, right on the Mediterranean coast, offering a magnificent view of the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its distinctive Corinthian columns, the historical site is an iconic example of Roman architecture.
Location: Side, Antalya Province
Cost: $3.50 / ₹250
7. Temple Of Zeus
Photo: Dosseman / Wikimedia Commons
The Temple of Zeus in Aizanoi, located in Phrygia, is one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples. It boasts a vast and impressive structure that remains largely intact, giving visitors a sense of its original magnificence. The temple, built in the second century under the rule of Emperor Dominitian, stands as a testimony to the strength of Roman architecture.
Location: Aizanoi, Kütahya Province
Cost: $7 / ₹510
8. Temple Of Serapis
Photo: Joan Costa / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Temple of Serapis is located in Aphrodisias, ancient times Ephesus. The temple, dedicated to the Greco-Egyptian god of healing and fertility Serapis, is a striking example of Greco-Roman architecture. It was one of the most important temples in the ancient city of Anatolia and is known for its beautiful location amidst the ruins of the historic city. This ancient temple remains a popular attraction for those interested in ancient cultures and architecture.
Location: Aphrodisias, Aydın Province
Cost: $9 / ₹660
9. Temple Of Augustus And Rome, Ankara
Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons
The Temple of Augustus and Rome, also known as the Monumentum Ancyranum, is located in Turkey’s capital, Ankara. Built-in honour of Emperor Augustus, this ancient temple holds historical inscriptions known as “Res Gestae Divi Augusti,” documenting the emperor’s achievements. It’s an important site for those interested in Roman history and is considered a hidden gem among the temples.
Location: Ulus, Ankara
Cost: $6 / ₹440
10. Gobekli Tepe
Photo: Mehmet Şimşek / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Göbekli Tepe, located near Şanlıurfa, is one of the oldest and most famous temples, and arguably, in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the 10th millennium BCE, making it one of the earliest known centres of worship. The site features massive stone pillars arranged in circles, each carved with intricate animal motifs, revealing sophisticated artistry from ancient hunter-gatherer societies. Göbekli Tepe’s discovery has changed perspectives on early human civilization and religious practices, marking it as a monumental archaeological site.
Location: Örencik, Şanlıurfa Province
Cost: $11/ ₹800
Turkey is home to some of the most awe-inspiring temples in the world, ranging from the famous temples in Turkey to the oldest and biggest temples of ancient times. The ruins are a vivid reminder of ancient civilizations and their spiritual practices. From the breathtaking Temple of Artemis to the serene Temple of Apollo, each temple tells a unique story of the past. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore these ancient temples.
Cover Photo: Carole Raddato / Wikimedia Commons
