Knidos Ancient City

24.10.2024
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Knidos Ancient City

Knidos, one of the important centers of the ancient period, is located between the islands of Kos and Rhodes and is one of the leading cities of the Caria region. Knidos, which is considered the second largest Dorian city known after Halicarnassus, was founded by Dorians coming from Peloponnese, immediately after the settlements of Rhodes and Kos.

The famous geographer Strabon stated that the city was built on terraces and rose towards the acropolis like a theatre. Knidos is truly known as a city of terraces due to the mountainous structure of its land.

The city is connected to a narrow piece of land and an islet known as the Camel's Neck or Cape Krio, and the two natural bays provided by this formation were used as harbours. The western harbour served warships, the eastern harbour served merchant ships.

Knidos, where trade was highly developed, was particularly known for its famous wines and also exported these wines. The city, which had an important place in the Hellen world from the 6th century BC onwards, became one of the economic and cultural centers of the region.

Building Plan of Knidos and Acropolis

Knidos was built with the plan-square system, which is one of the typical characteristics of ancient cities. In this system, streets and avenues that intersect each other at right angles extend in a regular manner. Both the mainland and the island parts of the city are built on two separate slopes, and the acropolis and the walls surrounding the city are among the most striking structures in the city. Travelers can enjoy magnificent views by watching the surrounding natural beauties and historical structures from the high terraces of the city.

Sanctuary of Demeter and the Great Theatre

To the east of Knidos is the Sanctuary of Demeter, one of the important centers of worship in ancient times. Right next to the sanctuary is a large theater. Visitors can walk among the ruins of this theater and witness the cultural past of the city. The theater is located in a dominant position in Knidos and once hosted important cultural events in the region. Unfortunately, the stones of this historic theater were dismantled to be used in the Dolmabahçe Palace and Mehmet Ali Pasha's buildings in Cairo; however, the remaining wall remains still provide an impressive sight.

Churches of Knidos

There are many churches in Knidos, especially from the Roman and Byzantine periods. Seven churches known in various parts of the city offer visitors important traces of the Christian period. The paving blocks on the floor of one of the churches located near the East-West Street attract attention with the Arabic inscriptions on them. In addition, the mosaics on the floors of some churches make these structures unique. The churches of Knidos offer a fascinating experience for those who want to learn in depth about the religious structures of the ancient world.

Temples in the Corinthian Order

There is an important temple built in the Corinthian order in the northeast of Knidos. Visitors can explore the ruins of this temple and discover the beauty of ancient architecture. The architectural elements of the temple have crumbled over time and continue to be found in place. Just west of the temple is the Round Temple Terrace. This is one of the highest points in the city and is located at a point where the city can be seen from all angles.

This terrace was considered the famous Temple of Aphrodite for many years, but recent research has shown that this structure was dedicated to another god. Nevertheless, the altar and later structures on the terrace offer an impressive discovery for travelers interested in history and mythology.

Apollon Terrace and Apollon Temple

Another important structure that must be seen in Knidos is the Terrace of Apollo. The terrace houses a temple dedicated to the God Apollo. The rows of seats located to the north of the terrace show that the people who attended the “Apollon Karneios” festivals held in ancient times watched the events from these areas. The foundations of the temple have survived to the present day, offering visitors the opportunity to follow the traces of history. In addition, the marble altar dedicated to the God Apollo is one of the most striking findings of this temple.

Harbour Street and Stoa

One of the important areas to visit in Knidos is the Port Street. This street starts from the small port and continues towards the terraces and is known as the main street of the ancient city. The street's floor is paved with square and rectangular blocks, and architectural pieces from the Roman period and a fountain structure are among the findings unearthed from here. The stoas located near the street provide clues about the social life of the ancient period. The stoas, which attract attention with their marble-covered exteriors, elegant carvings and columned structures, make visitors feel the splendor of the past.

Terrace of Dionysus

The Terrace of Dionysus in Knidos takes its name from the Temple of Dionysus located here. The temple was also used as a church for a while. Travelers can find traces of ancient rituals and religious ceremonies by walking among the ruins of this temple. In addition, the stoa located in this area offers visitors a rich opportunity to explore as part of the commercial and social life of the ancient city.

Pink Temple

Another important structure in Knidos is the Pink Temple. The temple, named after the pink tones of the stones used in its construction, was also used as a church over time. Although only the foundation ruins of the temple have survived to the present day, the structure's aesthetic features and historical importance continue to attract travelers.

Tracing the Past in Knidos

Knidos continues to fascinate travelers as an important cultural and commercial center of the ancient world. The city's unique architecture, historical buildings and unique landscapes offer visitors an unforgettable experience of both history and nature. This ancient city opens the doors of the past to travelers with its structures that have a different story in every corner. When you visit Knidos, you can enjoy exploring this historical city intertwined with the blue of the Aegean.

 

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