Didyma is the home of the magnificent Temple of Apollo and is one of the most important sites in the ancient Greek world. Walk amid the temple ruins and imagine the former glories of thousands of years ago. Gaze up at the soaring columns, walk through tunnels and stand on the stages where lavish festivals were held for the gods .
The ancient site of Didyam dates back over 2,000 years. Notable figures, such as Alexander the Great and Roman emperors, sent delegates to the temple to seek the advice of Apollo.
The plan for the temple included more than 100 columns, each one around 60-feet (18-metres) tall. Today there are only three standing, the rest possibly brought to ground by sieges and earthquakes. Gaze up at the columns to appreciate their enormity. Check out the intricate carvings that adorn the column’s bases. Go to the west side of the temple and spot a collapsed column, broken into segments like tumbled dominoes.
Walk down the grand staircase or one of the two marble-lined tunnels that lead to a vast walled enclosure. Look for the ruins of the sacred spring, which once contained water believed to possess hypnotic powers. Stand at the south side of the temple and envisage an action-packed festival with spectators vying for space on the steps, athletic events and poetry readings.
Surrounding the temple are fields strewn with huge pieces of marble. Find broken statues, column bases and an interesting carving of a medusa head.
Situated just outside the Turkish town of Didim, Didyma is about a 2-hour drive from Bodrum. Rent a car to visit this attraction plus Priene and Miletus, which are two other ancient sites. Alternatively, day tours to the three sites run regularly from Bodrum. Ask at your hotel for information.
Didyma is open daily and there is an admission fee. An audio guide is available to rent and provides insightful facts about the temple’s history. There are also information boards that explain the temple’s history. Visit in the morning to avoid large tour groups and the hot sun.