Sardis Tours
For a time Sardis was renowned throughout classical antiquity as the richest city on the planet, known for its legendary supply of gold washed down from the Tumulus Mountains. The term ‘rich as Croesus’ refers to that gold and the last Lydian ruler, King Croesus, who is thought to have invented gold coins.
In fact, settlement here dates back to Paleolithic times, but most of that history lies underground, destroyed by millennia of earthquake activity. Nowadays, the site is famous for its impressive Roman ruins, built hundreds of years after the city’s initial burst of fame, in around the 2nd century AD.
On a visit to the site you’ll see a grand double-story framework of columns and architraves outlining the extent of the Roman-era gymnasium. The baths here date from the 3rd century AD, and shops once lined the nearby street of marble stone. Fine capitals carved with acanthus leaves and classical curlicues have survived, along with mosaic tiled floors and statues.
You’ll also see the Synagogue with its marble court and mosaics, the acropolis and the celebrated Temple of Artemis, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Don’t miss the example of the Romans’ communal toilets, with a shared row of seating suspended over a latrine. The town’s arena was destroyed by an earthquake nearly 2,000 years ago, and there are more recent ruins dating from the Byzantine period.
Practical Info
Tours & Tickets
Private Jewish Heritage Tour: Sardis and Izmir Day Trip from Kusadasi
Combine a visit to the ancient ruins of Sardis with a tour of Izmir's Jewish neighborhoods on a full-day excursion from Kusadasi! While enjoying personalized ... Read more
Location: Kusadasi, Turkey
Duration: 8 hours (approx.)
Small-Group: Jewish Sites in Sardis
Spend a day exploring the Jewish site in the ancient capital of Lydia - Sardis. You will visit the Marble Synagogue and Gymnasium, along with the Smyrna Market ... Read more
Location: Izmir, Turkey
Duration: 9 hours (approx.)
Sardis Tour from Izmir with Private Guide
Visit to ancient city of Sardes including Artemis Temple, Synagogue and Gymnasium
Location: Izmir, Turkey
Duration: 5 hours (approx.)