Soura is known as one of the significant oracle centers of the Lycian Civilization. Located near the Demre district of Antalya, this ancient city gained fame primarily as the oracle center of Apollo.

Soura was one of the cities affiliated with the Lycian League. In ancient times, it was particularly renowned for its Temple of Apollo and oracle center. The Lycians consulted the oracles here before making important decisions. The city contained a sacred area dedicated to Apollo, a deity with a significant place in Greek mythology. The oracle center functioned similarly to the Apollo Temple in Delphi. Priests would enter a trance using water or herbal mixtures and make prophecies. The city remained an important religious center during the Roman and Byzantine periods, but over time, it lost its significance and was eventually abandoned.

The Temple of Apollo and oracle center was Soura’s most important structure. This sacred site, where priests used water or herbal concoctions to enter a trance and make prophecies, served a similar function to the Delphi Oracle Center of the ancient world. According to historical sources, the Lycian people and rulers consulted these oracles before making crucial decisions related to warfare and state governance.

Soura also features a small yet impressive ancient theater. Carved into the rocks in the typical Lycian style, this theater has partially eroded over time, but some sections remain visible. It is estimated to have had a capacity of 500-1,000 people.

The Lycians were known for their tradition of burying the dead in rock tombs. Similar rock tombs and ancient inscriptions can also be found in Soura. Many of the tombs are carved into the rocks and feature inscriptions written in the Lycian language.

Entrance Fee: Free

Visiting Hours: Open 24/7

Address: Karabucak Neighborhood, Demre-Kaş Road, Demre/Antalya