Laertes Ancient City

The best times to visit Laertes are spring and autumn. In April-May, the surrounding nature turns green, and temperatures are very suitable for hiking. In September-October, the summer crowds have dispersed, and the weather has cooled. Since temperatures in the mountainous terrain can reach serious levels in July-August, it is much wiser to set out early in the morning during this period. In winter, rain and muddy ground can make access to the area difficult.

The easiest way to reach Laertes Ancient City is by private car. Göküçüklü village, approximately 25 kilometers from Alanya city center, is the starting point for the road to the city. A short walk or a dirt road may be required from the village to the ancient site. Public transport connections are extremely limited, and dolmuş or minibus routes may not directly serve Göküçüklü. Renting a car from Alanya or taking a taxi is the most practical option. Since part of the road may be unpaved, it would be appropriate to choose a vehicle with high ground clearance.

There are no restaurants or cafes immediately near Laertes Ancient City. Dining options are also very limited in Göküçüklü village. Therefore, we recommend buying food and drinks from Alanya city center or from village bakeries along the way before your visit. Don't forget to bring plenty of water and light snacks; this precaution is a lifesaver, especially in summer.

Unlike crowded ancient cities, Laertes offers unique shots for photographers with its ruins intertwined with nature. The remains of the city walls and the surrounding maquis, especially with colorful blooming plants in spring, create a strong visual. Wide-angle photos taken from points overlooking the rugged topography of Rough Cilicia yield impressive results. The early morning light reveals dramatic shadows and textures on the stone ruins. The solitude of the area is also a significant advantage for long exposure and landscape photography.

Laertes is not yet a fully excavated and organized area. Walking paths and directional signs can be inadequate; it will make your job easier to study a map of the region beforehand, and if possible, go with a local guide or an experienced traveler. Sturdy walking shoes are essential; it can be dangerous to walk on rocky terrain with sandals or flat-soled shoes. To preserve the ruins, be careful not to touch any stones or artifacts, and do not take anything from the site.

Laertes is a city that has gone down in history as one of the important settlements of the ancient Rough Cilicia region. This settlement, also mentioned in the works of the geographer Strabo, was positioned in accordance with the mountainous and strategic structure of the region. City walls, temple ruins, and various architectural elements from the Hellenistic and Roman periods have survived in the area. Compared to many ancient cities on Turkey's southern coast, Laertes, while having attracted the interest of academic circles, is not yet widely known by the general public. This situation makes the city attractive for those who want to break away from ordinary tourism routes.