The Apollo Temple, often referred to as a “center of prophecy” from ancient times, attracted an impressive 132,740 visitors in 2023 in Didim, Aydın. This remarkable site has been undergoing excavation and restoration by German archaeologists since 1905, and as of 2024, the Miletus Museum is leading these efforts.
As the third largest temple in the world built in the Ionian style, the Apollo Temple is currently enhancing its visitor experience. Improvements include better pathways, reinforced surrounding walls, and beautiful landscaping, all managed by the dedicated museum team.
Dedicated to Apollo, the Greek god of music, art, the sun, fire, and poetry, the temple is famous for its stunning architecture and rich mythological stories. It features a total of 112 columns, including the “naos,” an inner courtyard for public worship, and a striking “sacred” courtyard that stands 17.5 meters high.
Legend has it that the temple is guarded by Medusa, the snake-haired monster believed to turn anyone who looks at her into stone.
The Apollo Temple remains a popular destination for both local and international tourists. In 2022, it welcomed 111,761 visitors, and that number rose significantly in 2023. Baran Aydın, the Director of the Miletus Museum, shared in an interview that Apollo was one of the most important religious centers of the ancient world.
Aydın noted that many notable figures visited the temple, saying, “Apollo was a significant religious hub in antiquity. It served as a place where people from all walks of life—kings, emperors, and ordinary citizens—came to seek answers about their future through prophecy.”
With its cultural significance and breathtaking architecture, the Apollo Temple continues to captivate visitors, solidifying its status as a must-visit location in Türkiye.
Cover Photo: Ferdi Uzun/Anadolu Agency