Realistically, there is not enough time in our tiny human lives to see all that Mother Earth offers us. Our tiny little brains simmer and puff out smoke attempting to comprehend not only Mother Earth herself, but also all that our single speck in the universe has to offer. It feels like a Herculean and colossal endeavor, one that we have no hope of achieving. Some of us, to be frank, have little chance of beholding all of our world’s treasures, but that doesn’t mean that as should throw in the towel. With today’s technology, we are a mere click away.
The other day, we happened upon a video that covers and uncovers yet another intriguing, bewildering and, to us, anyway, tempting place in the world, Termessos. We’ve been fortunate enough to travel across the planet and to see the world from almost top to bottom. We’re thankful everyday. So, when we encounter something not only new, but stunning as well, we squeal with delight. As you can tell by the title of this post, our star today is Termessos, and what a find it is.
Termessos is an ancient city in modern-day Turkey, perched high in the Taurus Mountains of Anatolia, near Antalya. It’s often described as a “hidden gem” or a “lost city,” and while it requires some effort to reach and explore, it is absolutely worth the effort for several compelling reasons, offering a truly unique experience for explorers.
Unlike many ancient sites that were sacked, rebuilt, or heavily excavated and reconstructed, Termessos was never fully conquered, even by Alexander the Great (who reportedly called it an “eagle’s nest” and deemed it too difficult to take). Its inhabitants resisted invasion, leading to its eventual decline through natural attrition rather than destruction. This means the ruins are incredibly well-preserved in their natural state, untouched by later civilizations that might have re-used or dismantled its structures. You experience the city much as it would have been found centuries ago, covered by pine forests.
Diagram showing the possible interior volume of the Odeon of Termessos.
There’s a good chance that Our affiliate partners, Viator can get you there. Click here to book.