I have seen image of the Temple of Zeus at Aizanoi in several publications about Turkey, but have never had the chance to visit it until now. Although it is probably amongst one of the most familiar images of Greek archaeological sites in Turkey, the ruins of Aizanoi has been out of the usual tourist track.
I guess the reason of this relative neglect is because unlike the extensive ruins at Ephesus or Bergama, there are relatively little old stones left standing in Aizanoi. Hence most tourists choose to give it a miss given their tight itinerary.
To get to Aizanoi, there are frequent buses from Kutahya's main bus station (5-6TL per person). Get off at Cavdarhisar and walk about 1km along a scenic countryside road. Soon you will see the impressive ruins of the Temple of Zeus on your left hand side. If you are coming from the direction of Izmir, just ask the bus driver to let you off at Cavarhisar.
Actually there are some other Roman ruins in nearby fields, one of which is the Roman bath house pictured below, but none is as photogenic as the Temple itself.
The sanctuary beneath the Temple of Zeus. It is very cool inside despite the extreme heat (35 degrees Celsius) outside in the open fields. As there are virtually no shade inside the compound of Aizanoi itself, a hat or umbrella with lots of sun cream is a must to prevent sunstroke.
The ruins are situated amongst some very pretty hills and farm lands. On the way back to Cavdarhisar, one would pass by a Roman bridge (2nd Century B.C.).
Copyrights@2010. All text and photos by YC Cheng. All Rights Reserved.
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