Patara
Some ancient sources relate the legend that the city was established by Patarus, the son of Apollo and Lycia, an nymph of the river Xanthos. Strabo describes the city as a large port, also explaning that it was founded by Patarus, in reality, however, lycians founded the city, and its name, as seen on inscriptions and coins, was Patara in the Lycian language. Patara derived its fame in ancient times from oracle of Apollo situated there. Oracles in the temple, which were kept open only during the winter months, sougt answer to questions concerning the future. This city, throughout the course of its history, was subject to invasions and sieges

Under Roman Domination, Patara again became one ofLycia's leading ports and received the title of metropolis. The Roman provincial governor resided in Patara and the offical archives of the region were kept here as well. During this period. St Paul passed through Patara on his way to Rome (60 A.D.) It is also known that the Emperor Hadrian, along with his wife, stayed for a time in the city. In addition, it undoubtedly won special honour during the Christian era as the birthplace of St. Nicholas.




 

Xanthos

Patara

Lycia

Kas (Antiphellos)

Simena

Myra

Phaselis

Olympos

Church of St. Nicholas - Myra

Aspendos