Didyma was one of the luckiest settlements of antiquity since it sheltered one of the most sacred spots of those times. It is the temple of Apollo, still standing in Didyma with its impressive view, though it has been attacked and burned several times. Here can be seen a portico of double colonnades surrounding the colossal temple and also the famous Medusa bust among the statues decorating it. The elaborate beauty of the temple and the artistic architecture captures you at once.

The temple was the oracles center (during the reign of Ionian Federation), and those who wanted to learn about the future visited Didyma then. The name of the city comes from this characteristic, as Didymeion means in antiquity, the place where oracles are told.

The only monument Didim possesses today, is the temple of Apollo, but it is reason enough to take an excursion to Didim where you may also enjoy the beaches while staying at friendly guest houses.

GEYRE (APHRODISIAS)
It is 12 kms northeast of the town of Karacasu. The history of this ancient city goes back to 4000 BC but the major part of Aphrodisias was built in the 1st-century BC. It was constructed to pay homage to Aphrodite, the goddess of love and fertility, whom it takes its name from.

Inside the high city walls, stand beautiful buildings covered by white and blue-gray marbles. The artistic style of the carvings on the monuments were so magnificent that the city soon became the master of arts, and its fame reached all sides of the ancient world. It constituted the greatest center of sculpturing, with its "School of Sculpture" the marvelous works of which are now displayed at the nearby museum.

An impressive sight in this city is the Aphrodisian theatre dating to the Hellenistic period. The lovely Aphrodisias odeion is another, being one of the excellent constructions in the area.

The Temple of Aphrodite is the most prominent remains with its high columns stand erected. One of the best-preserved stadiums in the world is also here, later used as an arena for gladiators.