St Nicholas Myra Ancient City Lycia Union Museum Cultural Tour

About this tour

The Lycian Union tour centered on Myra and St. Nicholas (Santa Claus) is a route rich in both spiritual and archaeological significance, delving deep into history. This tour program, concentrated in the Demre (Kale) district on the western coast of Antalya, generally includes the following stops.

1st Stop: St. Nicholas (Santa Claus) Church

• One of the most important spiritual stops on the tour. It is where St. Nicholas, known as Santa Claus, served as bishop and was buried.
• Architecture: The church, dating back to the Byzantine period, was buried under alluvium over time but has been unearthed through excavations.
• Importance: It is a pilgrimage center for the Christian world. The frescoes and sarcophagi inside are worth seeing.

2nd Stop: Ancient City of Myra

One of the six major cities of the Lycian Federation, Myra is famous for its rock tombs and theater.

• Rock Tombs: Carved into the mountainside, these house-like tombs represent the pinnacle of Lycian art. These tombs were built in high places based on the belief that the dead would be closer to the sky.
• Ancient Theater: Dating back to the Roman period, it is one of the best-preserved and largest theaters in the region. The stonework, decorated with mask reliefs, is remarkable.

3rd Stop: Andriake Port and Lycian Civilizations Museum

• Andriake, the port district of Myra, was the heart of trade in ancient times.
• Granarium (Grain Storehouse): This massive structure, dating back to the Hadrian period, now serves as the Lycian Civilizations Museum.
• Exhibition: Artifacts brought from cities such as Patara, Xanthos, and Tlos, which were part of the Lycian Federation, are displayed here.

Sample Tour Program Itinerary (Full Day)

• 08:30 – 10:00: Pick up from the hotel and arrival in Demre via the scenic coastal road
• 10:00 – 11:30: Visit to St. Nicholas Church and guided tour
• 11:30 – 13:00: Tour of the Ancient City of Myra (Tombs and Theater)
• 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant (usually fresh seafood or local dishes)
• 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Andriake Museum
• 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Return trip

Important Notes

• Clothing: For church visits, clothing that covers the shoulders and knees (in some areas) is preferred.
• Museum Pass: Since most areas are affiliated with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, a Museum Pass is a lifesaver.
• Weather: If you are visiting during the summer months, be sure to bring a hat and sunscreen as the region can get very hot.

Included in the Tour

• Transfer
• Guided Tour
• Lunch