Sagalassos,Turkey
Sagalassos is an ancient Pisidian city that flourished from the Hellenistic through the Roman period and into late antiquity. Perched high in the Taurus Mountains near modern Ağlasun (Burdur province), it is renowned for its high-altitude marble architecture, well-preserved urban layout and rich archaeological finds. Long-term excavations led by Belgian archaeologists have revealed monumental public buildings, sculptures and inscriptions that illuminate civic, religious and economic life in southwest Anatolia. The site's combination of classical urbanism and mountain setting make it important for understanding regional interactions between local Pisidian traditions and Greco-Roman culture.
Places to visit
- The Roman theatre — a large, well-preserved theatre with panoramic mountain views
- The Agora and colonnaded streets — civic heart with shops and public spaces
- Antonine nymphaeum / monumental fountain — richly decorated water monument
- Roman baths and cisterns — examples of public bathing infrastructure
- Stadium and stairways — impressive stepped routes linking city levels
- Open-air museum and site museum displays — key finds and inscriptions
Unique Aspects
- Extensive marble architecture and sculptural fragments
- High-altitude location (~1,400–1,500 m) with sweeping views of the Taurus range
- Well-documented stratigraphy and conservation work from long-term excavations
- Scenic hiking routes connecting ruins and natural terraces
Things to do
- Guided site tours explaining architecture, inscriptions and excavation history
- Hiking the nearby mountain trails and panoramic viewpoints
- Photography of ruins framed by mountain landscapes — especially at sunrise/sunset
- Visiting local museums (Burdur Archaeology Museum and on-site displays) to see sculptures and finds
- Attending occasional open-air concerts or cultural events when scheduled at the theatre
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for mild temperatures, stable weather and good visibility.
Weather Conditions
Mountain climate: cool to mild springs and autumns, warm but often windy summers with cool nights, and cold winters with snow at the site. Expect significant temperature swings between day and night due to altitude.
Entry Fees & Permits
The site is a staffed archaeological site with a modest entrance fee and seasonal opening hours (longer in summer, shorter in winter). Exact fees and hours change so check the official site or local museum before travel.
Accessibility
Nearest settlement: Ağlasun (the local town) — a short drive from the site. The area is best accessed by car or organized tour. The road to the site includes mountain stretches and parking is available near the entrance. Public transport is limited: reaching Sagalassos typically requires a car from Burdur or regional airports (Isparta or Antalya). The terrain is uneven; parts of the site involve steps and slopes, so mobility-impaired access is restricted.
Recommended Duration
Half-day to a full day on-site. Combine with a visit to Ağlasun and the Burdur Archaeology Museum for a fuller experience.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Sturdy walking shoes, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), layered clothing for cool mornings/evenings, and water. In spring/autumn bring a windproof jacket; in winter expect cold-weather gear and possible snow chains if driving.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Try regional Turkish dishes in Ağlasun and Burdur; local specialties include Burdur cheeses and traditional Anatolian fare. Souvenirs: locally made textiles, olive oil, honey and legal museum reproductions or guidebooks. Avoid purchasing antiquities (illegal and unethical).
