A journey through the layers of history
Atriya during the Hittite period and as Khrysaoris or Idrias in the Classical era, the settlement adopted the name Stratonikeia in the Hellenistic period. In the first quarter of the 3rd century BCE, King Antiochus I of the Seleucid dynasty bestowed the name on the city in honor of his wife, Stratonike, for whom he held great affection. During the Hellenistic era, Stratonikeia became an important city in Caria, changing hands repeatedly under Seleucid, Ptolemaic, Macedonian, and Rhodian rule. Around 130 BCE, it was incorporated into the Roman Empire, and, thanks to the stability of the Pax Romana, the city entered its most prosperous age. From the early imperial period onward, extensive construction projects were carried out, including a grand theater and one of the largest sports complexes of its time. Although the population began to decline after the Roman Imperial era, settlement continued from the 11th century onward under the Menteşe Principality and later during the Ottoman period. The village of Eskihisar, established over the ancient city, was relocated mainly after the 1957 earthquake, yet even today a few families continue to live in the historic houses.
Mythological legends and eternal love
The name Stratonikeia derives from a passionate love story that left its mark on the city’s founding legend. The love between Seleucid King Antiochus and Queen Stratonike became an oft-told tale in the ancient world. According to the legend, the young Antiochus fell gravely ill, wasting away from his love for Stratonike, until the king realized the truth and, as a remedy, gave his wife to his son. With this act of sacrifice, Antiochus immortalized his love by naming the city after Stratonike. Another distinctive feature of Stratonikeia, from a mythological perspective, is its sacred centers dedicated to ancient gods. The city was linked to two major cult sites, the Temple of Hecate in Lagina and the Temple of Zeus in Panamara. During annual rituals, Hecate’s sacred relics were brought from Lagina to the city, while the statue of Zeus was carried from Stratonikeia to Panamara and then returned, reinforcing the city’s spiritual rhythm.
The gladiators’ arena
Stratonikeia does not carry the title “City of Gladiators” without reason. Especially during the Roman period, the city gained fame for its gladiator schools and arenas. Historians note that gladiators were trained here in the arts of combat, exhibition matches were held, and many even spent their retirement years in this city. As a reflection of the value placed on sport, the people of Stratonikeia built one of the largest sports complexes of the ancient world. Located just west of the northern city gate and currently under restoration, the gymnasion stands out as one of the most monumental structures in Stratonikeia, the world’s largest ancient marble city. According to Excavation Director Prof. Dr. Bilal Söğüt, this vast 2,200-year-old complex is revealing baths, oiling and dusting areas, and spaces where young people received both physical and intellectual training. Dating to the 2nd century BCE, the structure features Corinthian capitals and exceptional stone craftsmanship, and it bears the character of an architectural school, regarded as one of the most magnificent Hellenistic works in Anatolia. Ongoing archaeological excavations continue to shed light on Stratonikeia’s gladiator tradition; the discovery of around twelve gladiator graves at the city entrance proves that this was indeed a true home for gladiators.
A journey through Stratonikeia and visitor guide
For history and culture enthusiasts, Stratonikeia offers a treasure that feels like an open-air museum. The city has been on UNESCO’s World Heritage Tentative List since 2015, and excavation work is ongoing. One of Stratonikeia’s most striking features is the way architecture from different eras coexists. At the heart of the ancient ruins, the historic square of the old Eskihisar village stands almost like a living stage from the past. Around the square, you can see examples of Ottoman-period civil architecture, such as the Şaban Ağa Mosque and the traditional village coffeehouse. Resting in the shade of centuries-old plane trees, you can take in the colonnaded Roman streets and the marble temple remains surrounding you. The ancient city is located in the Eskihisar area along the Muğla–Milas road and is about ten minutes by car from Yatağan. The site is open to visitors every day of the week and can generally be explored between 08:30 and 19:30 during the summer season. Entrance fees are kept at reasonable levels, and the MuseumPass is accepted, with certain types available exclusively to Turkish citizens. During your visit, you can see a large Roman bath complex, the theater, and the council building, and even take a break at the coffeehouse set right beside the ancient ruins.
Because the area can become quite hot in summer, it is wise to bring a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water. Since the ancient city covers a wide area, comfortable shoes are highly recommended. Photography enthusiasts especially enjoy the early morning and late afternoon, when golden light drifts across the city’s marble ruins. With its stories of mythological loves and ruins that still echo the excitement of the arenas, Stratonikeia stands as one of Anatolia’s most remarkable treasures, waiting to be discovered. To witness this deep-rooted heritage and set off on a journey through history, you can explore flight options to Muğla.
