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DEMRE; MIYRA; KALE
The foundation date of Myra is not known exactly.
However, the archaeological data, obtained from the researches in the
grave reliefs with regard to style, indicates that the city has existed
in the 5th century before Hellenistic Period. The city experienced its
golden period during the 2nd century AD. Myra, completely destroyed by
the earthquake in 141 AD., was rebuilt by the charities of the rich
Opromaos from Radiopolis and Lucius Magnun, Roman Proconsul. Artemis
Eleutera Sacred Place in the city was also rebuilt |
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renovated in this period, the theatre with its ornaments was
characterised as a wonder of the world in the Late Antique Period. Some
of the numerous masks ornamenting this stage building are exhibited in
the Demre Museum and some in the Antalya Museum.
During the reign of Theodosius II (408-450 AD.), the city became the
Metropolitan of the Lycians. In this period, the reputation of the city
as the centre of pilgrimage where diseases having been cured spread not
only in Lycia but also throughout the Christian World. The reason for
this is that Santa Claus (St. Nicholas) has lived here in Myra in this
period. |
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Patara-born St.
Nicholas lived in the middle of the 5th century AD. He became famous
with his charitable personality and miraculous ability to cure people’s
diseases. While being just a priest at the beginning, because of his
fame he was declared as a Saint later. His church was also turned into a
centre of pilgrimage. The main component of today’s church is the
structure of the church belongs to the 5th century AD. Which of the
tombs found in the church belong to St. Nicholas is still a matter in
debate. Every year ‘Santa Claus and Invitation to the World Peace’
activities are held in the Church of St. Nicholas on the 6th of December,
decease date of Santa Claus |
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Andriake
After planning the Parthian War, Trajan came to stay in Myra and
indicated the need for a port to be built in the south of the city, but
this was realised in the period of Hadrian. The city, to a great extent,
was at the foot of the hill in the south of the port. The necropolis and
the other remains of the city are in the north side of the port entrance,
very near to today’s Demre. Aqueducts, Nymphaeum, Agora and cistern are
among the remains. Famous Granarium (silo) takes place in the west of
the Agora. |
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Myra
This ancient city is next to the Demre
Brook. It at the foot of the mount, north of the Church of St. Nicholas. In
Myra, there are Rock Tombs and a well preserved theatre.
Demre
Demre is a place where the sea unites
with green. Cayagzi, Komurlu and Suluklu are the beaches for swimming in
Demre.
Don't Leave Without
Visiting the
ancient cities of Myra and Andrake, and the Church of St.Nicholas
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