Selinous/Traianopolis was an important coastal city in the ancient region of Cilicia Aspera (Rough Cilicia). It is particularly known as the place where Emperor Trajan died in 117 CE, while returning to Rome from his Eastern campaigns. Following this event, the city was renamed Traianopolis in memory of the emperor.

History

Selinous is an ancient settlement established on the Mediterranean coast, at the western edge of the Cilicia region. Although its exact foundation date is unknown, it is believed to have existed since the Hellenistic Period and was incorporated into the Roman province of Cilicia. A turning point in the city's history was the death of Roman Emperor Trajan in 117 CE, who fell ill and passed away here while returning from his Eastern campaigns. Following this tragic event, by decision of the Roman Senate and the new emperor Hadrian, the city's name was changed to "Traianopolis" (City of Trajan) in honor of Trajan. This renaming significantly increased the city's importance and prestige in the eyes of the empire. During the Roman period, Selinous/Traianopolis became one of the region's important centers thanks to its strategic location, playing a critical role in trade and transportation networks. The city continued to exist, particularly until the Byzantine period, but eventually lost its importance and was abandoned.

Geographic Location

Selinous/Traianopolis is located on the Mediterranean coast, within the borders of modern-day Gazipaşa district in Antalya province. In antiquity, it was situated in the region known as Cilicia Aspera, characterized by a mountainous and rugged geography, built upon a fertile delta where a natural harbor and the Selinus River meet the sea. This strategic location provided the city with advantages for both maritime trade and connections with inland regions. The extensions of the Taurus Mountains to its north and the Mediterranean Sea to its south facilitated the city's defense and also allowed access to rich natural resources. Among neighboring cities were other important coastal settlements such as Iotape to the west and Anemurium to the east. The city's geographical structure offered a safe haven for maritime trade, even during periods of intense piracy.

Significance in Antiquity

Selinous/Traianopolis was one of the leading cities in the Cilicia region during antiquity, both economically and politically. As a port city, it served as an important stop on Mediterranean trade routes, playing a key role in the maritime transport of agricultural products and forest resources from its surroundings to other regions. The city's political significance peaked with the death of Emperor Trajan in 117 CE and was cemented by its renaming to Traianopolis. This event led the city to attract the direct attention of the Roman Empire and become one of the important centers of the imperial cult. The city also functioned as an administrative center under Roman provincial rule, contributing to the maintenance of order and prosperity in the region. From a religious perspective, it is believed that cults dedicated to local Anatolian deities existed alongside those of Roman gods.

Coinage

No coins from this settlement are recorded in the NumisTR database.

Archaeological Remains

Today, the remains of the ancient city of Selinous/Traianopolis can be seen on the coast of Gazipaşa district. One of the city's most prominent structures is its well-preserved theater, built into the hillside. Additionally, traces of Roman-era structures such as its agora (city square), baths, aqueducts, and necropolis (burial ground) are present. The city's acropolis is situated on a high hill, where remnants of fortifications and other administrative buildings are believed to exist. Along the coastline, remains of ancient harbor structures and breakwaters can be observed both underwater and on the shore. These remains demonstrate how important and bustling a center the city once was.

Today

The ancient city of Selinous/Traianopolis is located today within the borders of Gazipaşa district in Antalya province, immediately adjacent to modern settlements. The ancient city remains are easily accessible on the Gazipaşa-Alanya highway. Visitors can explore prominent structures such as the theater and acropolis, experiencing the city's historical atmosphere. Its proximity to Gazipaşa Airport makes it a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists.