Antalya Andriake Archaeological Site

The project approved in 2012 by the Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Culture and Tourism, General Directorate of Cultural Heritage and Museums, within the scope of the “Andriake Archaeological Site Visitor Reception Center and Visitor Route Arrangement Project,” was implemented between 2012 and 2014. As part of this initiative, restoration works were completed on the agora/plakoma, cistern, granarium structure (now the Lycian Civilizations Museum), baths, churches, synagogue, various harbor structures, and honorary monuments located in the southern settlement of the ancient port city of Andriake. Following the establishment of designated visitor routes, the site was officially opened to the public in June 2015.

Within the service area, visitor pathways were constructed beginning from the reception center, enabling comfortable circulation throughout the archaeological site while ensuring minimal impact on its historical fabric. These routes, built using railway sleepers and cut granite stones, extend continuously from the entrance to the far end of the site and provide clear directional guidance for visitors. The final point along this route is the granarium structure, dating to the 2nd century CE (Horrea Hadriani – Imperial Granary). Owing to its exceptional state of preservation, this structure has been repurposed, within the framework of the approved “Lycian Civilizations Exhibition and Arrangement Project,” as a museum presenting artifacts from Lycian cities and offering an interpretation of Lycian civilization.

At the visitor reception center, an informational panel presenting the layout and essential details of the archaeological site welcomes visitors. Throughout the route, additional panels positioned adjacent to the structures provide further interpretive information, while directional arrows guide visitor movement along the path. At the entrance, a high-capacity parking area accommodates tour buses and private vehicles, and amenities such as a cafeteria and restroom facilities are available. The project also includes an introductory exhibition hall within the reception center, where visitors can access audiovisual and printed materials on Lycian civilization as well as maritime history—from antiquity to the present—highlighting Andriake’s historical role as a major maritime trade center serving the ancient city of Myra.

Additionally, an observation terrace has been constructed at the reception center, offering views of the Kokarçay (Andrios Stream)—partly designated as a first-degree archaeological site and partly as a first-degree natural protected area—and the northern settlement of Andriake. This natural site includes a bird sanctuary, and seating areas in front of the granarium provide opportunities for both rest and bird observation.

The harbor, which remained functional until the 7th century CE, has since silted up, transforming into a marshland and losing its connection to the sea. Once a sheltered port for commercial vessels and an essential logistical hub for maritime activities, Andriake featured facilities that made it an indispensable stop for seafarers. Today, on its now inactive quay, a reconstruction of an ancient merchant vessel illustrates the transport of liquid goods such as olive oil and wine in amphorae. On the open area above the harbor, in front of the granarium, exhibits include pulley-operated lifting devices used for cargo handling in ancient ports, boats under construction, and various maritime implements.

Through these restorations, interpretive installations, and reconstructions, the archaeological site has acquired the character of an open-air museum.