Fethiye Ancient City is a sparsely visited archaeological site in the forested area south of Fethiye village in Eskişehir's Seyitgazi district, containing Roman and Byzantine era structural remains and rock-carved traces.
Fethiye Ancient City is located in a forested and rocky area just south of Fethiye village, near Kırka Town. This area, which carries both Roman and Byzantine periods with its structural remains and rock-carved traces, is one of the least crowded ancient sites around Eskişehir.
Pine forests and rocky passages are intertwined with archaeological layers. Sturdy shoes are essential for visiting; the ground is uneven and slippery in some places. For those who want to take photos, the morning light works well: shadows hitting the rocks are most prominent at that time.
Related discoveries: Historical Places, Eskişehir historical places, Nasreddin Hodja's House.
Guide's Note
What is Fethiye Ancient City?
Fethiye Ancient City is located south of Fethiye village, near Kırka Town in the Seyitgazi district. The area, which contains Roman and Byzantine era remains, has been somewhat overshadowed by Eskişehir's more frequently visited Midas (Yazılıkaya) Ancient City; therefore, there are no crowds, and you can explore at your own pace.
The surrounding land is forested and rocky. Structural remains are intertwined with this natural texture; in some places, it becomes difficult to distinguish whether you are seeing a ruin or a natural rock. This is one of the interesting aspects of the area.
When to Visit?
April-May and September-October are the most comfortable periods in terms of both temperature and ground conditions. In mid-summer, the area gets very hot during midday; if you plan to go, prefer between 09:00-10:00 AM.
In winter months, the rocky ground is wet and slippery. It is safer to postpone your visit during rainy weather.
How to Get There?
From Eskişehir city center, you reach Seyitgazi district, then Fethiye village in the direction of Kırka Town. The distance is approximately 60-70 km; a private car is the most practical way. There is a short walk from the village to the ancient site.
For public transport, inquire about current Seyitgazi or Kırka bus schedules from Eskişehir bus terminal. Direct connections may not always be available.
Photography Spots
In the morning light, the rocky texture and pine forest background provide good frames. The contrast of shadow and light is most prominent at that time; in the afternoon, the light flattens and becomes harsh.
Rock-carved traces and remnant walls contain interesting details for close-up shots. A wide-angle lens is useful for those who want to show the natural texture of the area and archaeological remains together.
Things to Pay Attention To
The ground is rocky and uneven throughout. Walking with flat or thin-soled shoes is both tiring and risky; prefer trekking shoes or sturdy sports shoes.
Shaded areas are limited. In summer months, have water, a hat, and sunscreen with you. The ground near some ruins is unstable; be careful when walking with small children.
What to Eat Nearby?
There are almost no food and drink options around the ancient site. In Seyitgazi district center, there are small restaurants and places where you can have breakfast. In Kırka Town, there are shops to meet basic needs.
Before your visit, bring snacks and enough water. This is especially important in summer months.
Route Suggestion: Combine with Seyitgazi
Fethiye Ancient City is a half-day stop on its own. If you are coming to the region, it makes sense to combine it with the Seyyid Battal Gazi Complex in Seyitgazi district center; the complex is a strong complement both architecturally and historically. Midas (Yazılıkaya) Ancient City is also within visiting distance on the same day.
Visiting all three points in one day is possible but tiring. Determine your priority beforehand.
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