Fodor's Expert Review Seleukia Trachea

Silifke Ruins

Remains found throughout the town of Silifke, in the vicinity of the castle, indicate that there was a settlement here as far back as the Bronze Age. Most of what can be seen today are from the Roman city known as Seleukeia Trachea, or Calycadnos Seleuceia, and include Corinthian columns from the 2nd-century-AD Temple of Zeus, a stone bridge, and an ancient water cistern. A few kilometers out of the village, you'll find the remains of a basilica dedicated to St. Thecla, St. Paul's first convert and the first female Christian martyr. Most interesting is the cave church below it where Thecla lived—the Patriarchate in Istanbul now organizes services here occasionally. There is a 6th century cistern at the site as well.

Ruins Historical

Quick Facts

Silifke, Mersin  33950, Turkey

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