A Harbor Built in Honor of a Queen
Rising on the shores of a deep blue bay between Alanya and Gazipaşa, Iotape is an elegant Roman city named after the wife of King Antiochus IV of Commagene. Built on a steep promontory (acropolis) reaching into the sea, this settlement possesses both the security of a fortress and the aesthetics of a port city. This treasure, located just below the highway, merges the dusty pages of history with the frothy waters of the Mediterranean.
Turning Points of History
Established between 38-72 AD, the city became one of the most brilliant ports of the Cilicia region during the Roman Empire. It gained enough economic power to mint its own coins from the reign of Emperor Trajan to Valerian. Maintaining its importance during the Byzantine period, the city continued to be a frequent stop for medieval pirates and merchants.
Engineering by the Sea: Baths and Temple
The most prominent structure of Iotape is its grand bath complex by the shore. The bath's surviving sewage system showcases Roman genius in infrastructure. The foundations of the Temple of Trajan on the acropolis overlooking the bay and the monumental tombs in the necropolis whisper of the city's noble past. Although the ancient harbor street is now under the modern road, the marble blocks of the pier can still be seen on the shore.
Practical Information
- Location: 33 km from Alanya, 10 km from Gazipaşa.
- Transportation: Located on the old coastal road (D400) between Alanya and Gazipaşa. It is right by the roadside.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
- Activities: After touring the ancient city, you can swim among the ancient harbor ruins in the hidden bay just below.
- Visiting Hours: Open 24/7.
- Combined Suggestion: Can be planned on the same route as Syedra Ancient City and Sapadere Canyon.
