Aspendos★★★
The Theater of Aspendos (155 AD) is the best-preserved Roman theater in the world — period. While other ancient theaters are mere ruins, Aspendos stands almost complete: 15,000 seats, the original stage wall (Skene) with its niches, columns, and reliefs, the arcades, and even parts of the wooden stage machinery.
The acoustics are legendary: A whisper on stage can be heard in the top row. A coin dropped on the stage floor sounds crystal clear to the last tier. Built by the architect Zenon under Emperor Marcus Aurelius, the theater is still used today for concerts and opera performances (Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival in June/July).
Next to the theater lie the ruins of the ancient city of Aspendos with an impressive Roman aqueduct (15 km long, parts preserved up to 30 m high), a basilica, an agora, and a Nymphaeum fountain complex.
💡 Tipp
Come early in the morning or late afternoon — at noon it becomes unbearably hot (no shade!). Sit in the top row and have someone clap on the stage — the acoustics are incredible. The Opera Festival in June/July offers performances in the ancient theater — a magical experience under the starry sky. Book tickets in advance!