As a
logical continuation, after Priene and
Miletos, one goes to
Didyma, a famous temple for
its oracles. This temple dedicated to Apollo was the richest and biggest of the Ionian
temples on Anatolian soil. It was to cover such a vast area, that its construction lasted
more than 150-200 years and yet it was planned to be without ceiling. Again after the
"Ionian Rebellion", it was to Alexander the Great to order its restoration. On
the ruins of the VIth century BC temple, a church was built during the Byzantine period.
Though the ruins one can see today, are of pre-Christian age. The temple was famous all over the Greek world for its oracles
so that it even surpassed the reputation of Delphi.The reason for which the harbor of
Panamos near Didyma became very busy and was visited by lots of commanders, ordinary and
respected people, is that they wanted to learn their future from the priests of the temple.
The oracle ceremonies were in two steps: the Pithy would first comment the glitters on
the waters of a well and then the priests would translate these into literal and
impressive words.
- After the Lade War, many of the priests were
to escape from the temple or killed by Alexander the Great and the temple of
Didyma
remained an unimportant temple till the Roman time.
How
to Go?... Didyma
is located 75 km south
of Kusadasi. There is no direct public transportation
from Kusadasi. To reach Didyma; you may take
minibus to Soke, then to Didim from Soke bus station; or a
daily tour to Didyma - Priene - Miletos from any agency
in Kusadasi.
For more information, visit Didyma
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