4 Must-See Structures in Laodikeia Archaeological Site

Laodikeia, one of the fascinating ancient cities of Türkiye, was founded in the 3rd century BC on the land that now lies within the borders of Denizli. The city has become the main centre of the region, as its location at the intersection of roads offered Laodikeia a strategic advantage in military, administrative, and economic. One of the details that reveals the importance of the settlement is the presence of structures like a bazaar, strategeion, gymnasium, theater — all of which are mentioned even in the inscriptions from earlier periods found in the city. The settlement, which maintained its importance from the Hellenistic period through to the early Eastern Roman period, stands out for its advanced water supply system and its infrastructure. What remains of Laodikeia, one of the largest cities of the ancient Phrygia region, instantly draws visitors into the enchanting world of history. Here are 4 must-see structures to explore when you visit this remarkable settlement, which is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.

1. Trajan Nymphaeum

The remains of the monumental fountain built during the reign of Emperor Trajan (AD 98 –117) stand out not only for their artistic craftsmanship — echoing the era’s aesthetic values — but also for an inscription that reveals rules on the use and upkeep of the city’s water system. The fountain, understood to have been an impressive structure, is also thought to have symbolized political power and served as a propaganda tool for both the Roman Empire and Laodikeia. 

2. Laodikeia Church

The church, built during the time when  Emperor Constantine the Great legalized Christianity in the Roman Empire in 313 AD, features an architectural plan unlike anything seen before in Christian history. Its baptistery also contains one of the oldest and best-preserved marble baptismal pools in the world. The church located in Laodikeia, one of the Seven Churches of Asia mentioned in the Bible, honored the city with the title of the “Union of Seven Churches” and it holds major significance for faith-based tourism. From the 4th century AD onwards, it became a pilgrimage centre for early Christians. Today, the church remains are open to visitors, protected by a roof and transparent walkways placed over the structure.

3. Temple A

The temple was originally dedicated to the goddess Artemis, the god Apollo, and the Imperial Cult at the time of its construction. The temple was repurposed as the religious archive of the Laodikeia Church after Christianity was declared the official religion of the Roman Empire.  Today, several of its grand columns have been restored, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of Pamukkale and the Lykos (Çürüksu) Plain through a glass-encased, steel-framed section designed to protect the site.

4. Western Theater

Located in the early settlement area of the city, the theatre was carved directly into the natural ground — a typical Hellenistic tradition. Built in the 2nd century BC, it remained in active use for an incredible 700 years, all the way up to the 9th century AD. With a capacity for 8,000 seats, one unique architectural detail of the theatre is that it was designed to let in the afternoon breeze from the west. For centuries, it was where crowds came together and witnessed important rituals in the lives of the city’s residents — and today, the Western Theater is one of the must-see structures in the ancient city. 

Laodikeia Archaeological Site, which shows the transition from paganism to monotheistic Christianity throughout its glorious centuries-long history, is one of the unique parts of human history and cultural heritage. This remarkable archaeological site is a must-see for history enthusiasts and travellers alike. From monumental fountains and Roman baths to theatres, and temples, Laodikeia offers a powerful glimpse into the ancient world. It’s also recognised as one of the important early centres of Christianity, with 2 churches located within its borders. Curious to dive deeper into Laodikeia Archaeological Site, one of the most valuable sides of Türkiye’s unique historical and cultural heritage? Don’t miss our blog post “Excavation Sites in 5 Questions: Laodikeia” to learn more — featuring an exclusive interview about the archaeological work at the ancient city.