Aspendos

Aspendos is an ancient city in Antalya Province best known for its remarkably well-preserved Roman theatre and associated civic remains. The theatre dates to the 2nd century CE and is widely cited as an outstanding example of Roman provincial architecture.

The theatre’s semicircular auditorium and stage building survive in large part; the cavea is carved into the hillside and originally seated an estimated 15,000 spectators. Nearby survivors include parts of the city’s aqueduct system and market area that once supported the theatre and urban life.

The city flourished in the Roman Imperial period when monumental building activity expanded public spaces and infrastructure. Later periods saw continuity and reuse of structures; the theatre specifically has been conserved and adapted for modern cultural events.

Aspendos lies near the modern town of Serik, inland from the Antalya coast, approximately 45 kilometres east of the city of Antalya.

• Preservation and use: The theatre is one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in the region and is still used occasionally for performances and festivals due to its acoustics and state of preservation.

What to See #

• Roman theatre: Roman theatre built in the 2nd century CE, noted for the survival of its auditorium and the stage building; the cavea originally seated around 15,000 people.
• Aqueduct and agora: Remaining aqueduct and agora structures that supplied water and served the civic centre of the ancient city.