Laodikeia

Laodikeia is an archaeological site known for its impressive ruins. It is situated on the plains of the Lycos River about 6km north of Denizli. It was home to one of the oldest Christian communities of the Roman Empire and is also one of the Seven Churches of Revelation.

Established during the Hellenistic period, Laodikeia was one of the most important settlements alongside Hierapolis and Tripolis. The site is designed according to the Hippodamian grid plan, with its streets crisscrossing at right angles or running parallel. The main street, Syria Street, is lined with colonnades and pedestals. It was hit by several earthquakes and has been restored many times. The remains of the ancient wall can be seen on its eastern side, along with the ruins of the Ephesus gate. Laodikeia is home to Anatolia's largest ancient stadium with over 8,000 seats, four-bath complexes, five agoras, two theatres, a gymnasium and a bouleuterion or Senate House. Other attractions at the site include numerous sarcophagi, five fountains, a marble block with an inscription of the water law, temples, churches and houses with a peristyle design. In addition, there are remains of an aqueduct that begins a few miles away and an inverted syphon. Cemeteries surround Laodikeia on all four sides. A statue of the Roman emperor Trajan was recently erected here.