Good news! While driving your electric vehicle from Istanbul to Bodrum, there are plenty of ancient cities you can visit along the way. Even better, ChargeIQ has your back, marking all the electric charging stations along your route on the map to make this delightful journey hassle-free.


With ChargeIQ, you can check the availability of stations in advance and share your experiences with other EV drivers. So, let’s hit the road and explore the traces of the past as we guide you through nine must-see ancient cities!

Görsel: Pexels / Seckin


ANCIENT CITY OF TROY

First, let’s head to Troy, one of the world’s oldest ancient cities. Believed to have been founded around 3000 BCE, Troy’s nine layers reveal that it was home to various civilizations over time. Archaeological excavations are still ongoing in this ancient city, which features baths, theaters, hearths, schools, and podiums used by different cultures. Moreover, the famous Trojan Horse, immortalized in films, is also displayed in this historic site.


ANCIENT CITY OF SARDIS

Located in the Sart district of Manisa, this ancient city is recognized as the capital of the Lydian Kingdom. During the era of the Lydians, Sardis became wealthy through agriculture, livestock, trade, and gold mining. It is also renowned as the first place where coins were minted. Nestled on the slopes of Mount Tmolos, the Bronze House, one of the most stunning structures of the ancient world, is a must-see attraction.


ANCIENT CITY OF EPHESUS

Görsel: Unsplash / Deniz

Ephesus, one of the best-preserved ancient cities, dates back to 6000 BCE. The Ephesus we see today was founded around 300 BCE by Lysimachus, a general of Alexander the Great. Must-see structures within the city include the Temple of Hadrian, the Library of Celsus, Curetes Street, Harbor Street, and the House of Love. Additionally, the Terrace Houses, said to have been home to wealthy families, captivate visitors with their stunning architecture.


ANCIENT CITY OF ERYTHRAI

The ancient city of Erythrai, which shows continuous settlement from the Bronze Age to the Roman Period, is a must-visit for anyone traveling to İzmir. As one of the most prominent Ionian cities, Erythrai is known for its structures that reflect its political power. Due to the color of its soil, it is also called the "Red City." The city lives up to the famous philosopher Homer's description as "the place where the sun sets most beautifully."


ANCIENT CITY OF NYSA

Dating back to the 3rd century BCE, the ancient city of Nysa was a center of science and education during its time. Studies have revealed that the city was built as two separate sections connected by three bridges, although the remains of these bridges have not been found. Nysa offers a profound glimpse into history with its 30,000-seat stadium, ancient library, Roman bridge, baths, and the Gymnasium where young people were educated.

Görsel: Unsplash / Yusuf


ANCIENT CITY OF APHRODISIAS

Our next stop is the Ancient City of Aphrodisias, a place that feels as though you've been transported back to the years before Christ. Named after Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, this city boasts some of the most magnificent structures preserved to this day. Many of the artifacts within the city are statues, including the breathtakingly beautiful statues of Aphrodite and the Old Fisherman. Additionally, the 8,000-seat Aphrodisias Theater leaves visitors with the impression that a new play could start at any moment.

Görsel: Unsplash / Danil


ANCIENT CITY OF PRIENE

One of the 12 Ionian cities, the Ancient City of Priene was built on a steep rock, giving it a strategic advantage in wars. The city is home to several sacred temple areas, including the Temple of Demeter, the Temple of Athena, and the Temple of Zeus. It is believed that Priene came under the rule of bishops during the Byzantine era.


ANCIENT CITY OF EUROMOS

Known in antiquity by names such as "Kyramos" or "Hyramos," the Ancient City of Euromos is thought to have been a battleground in various wars. While many of the ruins in Euromos are worn down, the Temple of Zeus within the city is considered one of the best-preserved temples to date.


ANCIENT CITY OF STRATONIKEIA

Dating back to the 3rd century BCE, Stratonikeia is famously known as the "City of Gladiators." The city contains structures such as a theater, temples, and fortifications, and it is believed to have been used as a settlement during the Seljuk and Ottoman periods.

Excavations have revealed a bathhouse and the Şaban Ağa Mosque, showing that Stratonikeia was inhabited as recently as 700 years ago.




As you set out from Istanbul and journey through the ancient cities of Troy, Ephesus, Priene, and Stratonikeia, you can easily find the electric charging stations along your route with ChargeIQ.


Have a great trip!