Ancient Attalea was an important port city founded in the mid-2nd century BCE by King Attalus II Philadelphus of Pergamon in the region of Pamphylia. Strategically located on the Mediterranean coast, this settlement maintained its existence as a continuous center of habitation and trade from the Hellenistic Period through the Byzantine era. Today, it forms the core of the modern city of Antalya in Turkey.

History

The foundation of Attalea dates back to the mid-2nd century BCE, attributed to the powerful ruler of the Kingdom of Pergamon, Attalus II Philadelphus (159-138 BCE). Named after the king, the city quickly became one of the significant centers of the Pamphylian region due to its strategic location. With the bequest of the Kingdom of Pergamon to Rome in 133 BCE, Attalea also came under Roman rule and became part of the Roman Empire. During the Roman period, its commercial and administrative importance in the region increased, particularly after the suppression of piracy in the 1st century BCE. Emperor Hadrian's visit to the city in 130 CE marked a significant turning point in its history, and a magnificent arch was erected to commemorate this visit. Maintaining its importance during the Byzantine period, Attalea played a key role in the Eastern Roman Empire's Mediterranean trade. Its identity as a port city ensured Attalea's continuous development under various civilizations.

Geographic Location

Attalea is situated on the southern coast of Anatolia, commanding a position overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, at the western edge of the Pamphylian plain. The city's possession of a natural harbor made it an important center for maritime trade and transportation from ancient times onwards. The fertile Pamphylian plain, with the Taurus Mountains rising to its north, supported the city's agricultural wealth, while the Mediterranean to its south served as a gateway for trade networks. This strategic location made Attalea a crossroads for both sea and land routes. It maintained close relations with neighboring ancient cities such as Perge, Aspendos, and Side, integrating into the region's overall economic and cultural structure. The city's establishment on a high plateau also provided natural defensive advantages.

Significance in Antiquity

Attalea held great significance in antiquity, both economically and politically. Thanks to its natural harbor, it was one of the primary trade centers where agricultural products (grain, olive oil, wine) from the interior regions of Pamphylia were exported to the Mediterranean, and goods from abroad were distributed inland. This commercial vibrancy increased the city's prosperity and established it as a regional economic power. Politically, after the Kingdom of Pergamon, it served as an important administrative and military center for the Roman Empire and later the Byzantine Empire. Its harbor served as a strategic base for navies, playing a critical role particularly in combating piracy and ensuring the security of maritime routes. The city's urban architecture and public structures reflect Attalea's wealth and importance in antiquity. Religiously, there were temples and cult sites dedicated to local goddesses and the Roman Imperial cult, indicating their significant place in the city's social and cultural life.

Coinage

No coins from this settlement are recorded in the NumisTR database. While it may seem surprising for an important trade and port city like Attalea not to have struck its own coins, this situation may indicate the widespread use of coinage from other major mint cities in the region during that period (e.g., Perge, Side, or Aspendos). The monetary flow required for the city's economic activities was likely met by coins supplied by neighboring or imperial mints. This suggests that despite Attalea's economic importance, it either lacked the authority to issue independent coinage or did not feel the need to exercise such authority.

Archaeological Remains

Today, the ancient remains of Attalea, located in the heart of the modern city of Antalya, are integrated into the urban fabric. One of the most striking and well-preserved structures is Hadrian's Gate, built in 130 CE to commemorate Emperor Hadrian's visit to the city. This monumental triple-arched gate remains one of the city's important symbols today. In the old city district known as Kaleiçi, remnants of the ancient harbor and sections of city walls dating to the Roman and Byzantine periods can be seen. Furthermore, Hıdırlık Tower, dating to the 2nd century BCE and believed to have been built to protect the ancient harbor, is another significant surviving structure. Other ancient structures of the city have been covered by modern development or have perished over time; however, ongoing excavations and research continue to shed light on the city's rich history.

Today

The remains of ancient Attalea today form the historical core of Antalya, one of Turkey's largest and most popular tourist destinations. Hadrian's Gate, Hıdırlık Tower, and the narrow streets of Kaleiçi are the main points reflecting the atmosphere of the ancient city. These remains are intertwined with modern urban life and are easily accessible to visitors. The Antalya Museum houses numerous artifacts unearthed from Attalea and surrounding ancient cities, showcasing the region's rich archaeological heritage.