Lyrbe is an ancient city near Bucakşeyhler Village in Manavgat, featuring unexcavated city walls, a bath complex, and church ruins from the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods; it offers free entry.
Lyrbe, also known as Seleukeia, is one of the ancient cities within the borders of Manavgat district that many people have not yet heard of. Established on a forested and rugged terrain right next to Bucakşeyhler Village, the city bears traces of different periods with its city walls, monumental gate, bath complex, church ruins, and necropolis area. Thanks to excavations carried out by archaeologist Jale İnan between 1972 and 1979, a part of the city has been unearthed, but a large portion of the area still remains underground.
One of the most interesting elements found in the city are the mosaic-paved structures. The Orpheus mosaic and the Seven Sages mosaic were discovered in this area; both are now exhibited in the Antalya Museum. To the southwest of the city, there is a three-part bath complex and a two-story church structure, while the necropolis area extends to the southeast. The expansive view of Oymapınar Dam and the surrounding nature from the upper parts of the city makes the visit worthwhile in itself. Entry is free, and there are no facilities in the area; therefore, it is necessary to go prepared.
Related discoveries: Places to visit in Antalya, Historical Places, Historical places in Antalya, Lower Düden Waterfall.
Guide's Note
Lyrbe is an ancient city located about 16 km north of Side, at the foothills of the Taurus Mountains, containing ruins dating from the Hellenistic period to the Byzantine era. Its most prominent feature among visitors is its silence and solitude: the number of tourists visiting the area is quite low, offering a calm exploration away from crowds. The agora, baths, city walls, cisterns, and church ruins are among the main elements of the area; mosaics and sculptures found here in the 1970s are now exhibited in the Antalya Archaeology Museum.
Most visitors find the location and atmosphere of the area positive; however, a recent forest fire has negatively affected both the appearance and the visitor experience. Multiple comments state that the environment has significantly changed compared to before the fire, with the forest being replaced by an open and unkempt area.
It is recommended to pay attention to the following points before visiting the area:
- Neglect: The grass and shrub cover is dense; the area is generally found to be unkempt, and there are no information signs.
- Access road: The road is single-lane and narrow; maneuvering can be difficult if a vehicle comes from the opposite direction.
- Safety: Due to the secluded nature of the area, some visitors report encountering uncomfortable situations; those going alone or in small groups are advised to be careful.
- Wildlife: At least one visitor reports seeing snakes in the area; appropriate footwear and careful walking are recommended.
- Environmental planning: The area can be combined with the nearby Manavgat Waterfall and included in a day trip.
When to Visit?
Since Lyrbe is a very hot and shadeless area in the summer months, the period between October and April is much more comfortable for a visit. In spring, the surroundings turn green, the vegetation in the area comes alive, and walking becomes enjoyable. If you have to go in the summer months, choose the early morning hours, preferably between 08:00-10:00; in the afternoon, both the heat and the sun can be quite scorching. Wearing sturdy-soled shoes is a valid recommendation for all seasons, as the ground can become slippery in rainy weather.
How to Get to Lyrbe?
The ancient city is located approximately 20-25 kilometers from Manavgat town center, near Bucakşeyhler Village. Rental car or private vehicle is the most practical way to get there; the road to the city is narrow, and public transportation options are extremely limited. After reaching the village from Manavgat, you can follow the signs directing you to the ancient city. If you are staying in Side or Manavgat center, you can plan it as a day trip. Searching for 'Lyrbe Ancient City' or 'Seleukeia Ancient City Manavgat' in navigation apps will be sufficient.
What to Eat and Where to Go Nearby?
The area where Lyrbe is located is quite secluded; there are no cafes, restaurants, or buffets within or immediately near the ancient city. It is strongly recommended to buy food and plenty of water from Manavgat or Side before your visit. In Manavgat, riverside restaurants offer fresh fish and Turkish culinary classics. In Side, there is a wide range of options from tourist facilities to local eateries. If you combine your Lyrbe trip with Manavgat Waterfall or Side ancient city, you can easily sort out lunch at these points.
Photo Spots
Lyrbe offers a rich area for photography. The view of Oymapınar Dam, especially when taken from the upper parts of the city, allows you to capture ancient stones and the body of water in the same frame. The city walls and monumental gate ruins provide beautiful shots in dramatic lighting conditions, in the early morning or late afternoon. The arched structures of the bath complex and the rock tombs in the necropolis area are also striking subjects for photography. Since the mosaics are covered in situ, those who wish to see these works need to visit the Antalya Museum.
Things to Consider Before Visiting
There are no facilities, toilets, or drinking water sources in the area. Make sure you have enough water and snacks with you. The terrain is rugged and stony; prefer sports shoes or hiking boots. Some mosaics are covered for protection and may not be visible on site; you can compensate for this by examining the examples in the Antalya Museum. Since a large part of the excavation work has not been completed, some areas are still underground. Careful driving is required on the narrow road leading to the city. The number of official guides or information panels in the area is quite limited; doing some research beforehand will make your visit much more productive.
Regional Itinerary Suggestion
Instead of planning Lyrbe as a standalone destination, combining it with other points in the Manavgat and Side region provides a much more efficient travel experience. Visit Lyrbe in the early morning, then head to Manavgat Waterfall and have lunch by the river. In the afternoon, you can visit Side Ancient City and Side Museum. If you also add the Antalya Museum, where the mosaics found in Lyrbe are exhibited, to your program, you will grasp the story of the ancient city in a much more comprehensive way. This itinerary can be spread over two days; if you start early, it can also be completed in a single day.
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