The Roman Theater of Aspendos, Turkey
If you decide to visit the Lycia area of Turkey or, perhaps, just Antalya, put both Perge and Aspendos on the "must see" list. Also, tour Perge first and then move on to Aspendos. Fortunately (or unfortunately), the only major ruin to see in Aspendos is the Roman Theater, the best best preserved in Asia Minor...View image. The theater was built in 155 AD and seated 15,000 but, what is most important, the structure is nearly intact!
Aspendos was founded around 1000 BC by the Greeks after the Trojan War, and became wealthy trading in salt, oil and wool. Although Aspendos wasn't on the coast, it was situated on the banks of the Eurymedon River which allowed ships to reach it.
The Aspendos Theater had a high stage, still intact backdrop, and I loved the reserved seating. The private boxes above the entrances on both sides were reserved for the Imperial family and the vestal virgins. The first row of orchestra seats belonged to senators, judges, and ambassadors, and the second was reserved for other city notables. The remaining seats were open to all. You could still see names carved on certain seats, row and seat numbers, and it's amazing how this theater system is still used today. Nothing has changed except togas.
There was plenty of time to climb steps to the different levels, walk around and enjoy the vistas from all angles....
...and browse the "stuff" being sold outside the Aspendos Theater. Aspendos was the last major ancient site on the Lycia Winter Turkey vacation and a perfect ending to antiquity.
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