Myra · St. Nikolaos

In Demre, an easy drive east of Kalkan via Kaş, Myra offers one of Lycia’s most memorable sights: a cliff face honeycombed with house-shaped rock tombs rising above a large Roman theatre. A second cluster of tombs lines the nearby river necropolis. A few minutes away stands the Church of St Nicholas, linked to the bishop who inspired the Santa Claus legend, making Myra a rewarding and easy half-day trip.

History

Myra was one of Lycia’s leading cities and among the members of the Lycian League with the highest voting rights. Most of its rock tombs date from the 4th century BC. Under Roman rule the city prospered, and the theatre was rebuilt after a major earthquake in AD 141. Saint Paul changed ships at Myra on his voyage to Rome, and in the 4th century Nicholas served here as bishop. In Byzantine times Myra became the capital of Lycia, before floods and Arab raids led to its decline.

Don’t miss

1. Cliff face of house-shaped Lycian rock tombs
2. Roman theatre with well-preserved seating
3. Carved theatre masks on fallen stage blocks
4. River necropolis with richly carved relief tombs
5. Church of St Nicholas with Byzantine frescoes
6. Nearby Andriake harbour and Lycian Civilisations Museum