| |
There is no need for
a guide when travelling to Olympos. Here is some
information on the ancient city’s history:
In Lycian times the ancient port city of
Olympos was one of the
members of the Lycian Federation. Because of the
wealth of Olympos, it had three (compared to less
wealthy cities that had only one) seats in the
federation. During this period the city was subject
to raids by pirates. Later, the city was rescued by
the Roman commander Isauricus. The city’s wealth was
due to its strategic trading position – it benefited
from Genoese and Venetian traders who took advantage
of the city’s natural harbour.
Seventeen centuries late on, Olympos is now the
destination of those seeking tranquility in
aesthetically pleasing surroundings. Although it is
all so easy to get submerged in a place steeped in
such history, it has to be remembered that it is not
just the past that attracts people to Olympos. The
translucent water of the Mediterranean is too
tempting to resist. A swimsuit is an absolute must
when visiting. Peering in to the sea from a boat the
pebbles appear within hands-reach; they’re probably
twenty feet away from the tip of the finger !Looking
up from the seashore, the city’s ancient acropolis
is clearly visible on the side of the mountain.
Those who wish to rid themselves of the salt after
swimming should paddle in the stream that flows
through the valley, and then meanders through the
Lycian ruins, before eventually reaching the sea.
Whilst strolling through the ice-cold stream a
sarcophagus comes into sight amongst the ruins of
the city. The sarcophagus is that of Captain Eudomos
- there is an embossed boat figure and an
inscription in his memory. The path that cuts
through the pine forest leads to the Roman temple.
|