Topkapı Palace
The sultans’ palace on Sarayburnu: courtyards, the Imperial Council, the treasury and the terraces over the water. Dated entry, sold online on its own site.
Alaşehir Archaeological Site
The ruins of ancient Philadelphia in Manisa, once called Little Athens, with the tall piers of the 6th-century St. John church.
About the museum
Alaşehir stands on the site of ancient Philadelphia, founded by Attalos II Philadelphos, one of the kings of Pergamon, in the Hellenistic period. In Roman times the city was known as Little Athens because of its many temples and the number of festivals held there.
Philadelphia kept its importance in the Byzantine period, when it was ringed by a solid defensive wall. One of its most impressive monuments is the church of St. John, dating to the 6th century AD. Dedicated to the apostle John, it is one of seven early Christian churches of the Aegean region, and three of its piers still stand in good condition.
Their height, thickness and the way they were joined by arches give a clear idea of how grand the church must once have been. This is a small, quiet site in a modern town, best for those who enjoy following the early Christian story of western Anatolia and imagining a lost provincial city.
Tips
- The ruins are in the town centre, so combine the visit with a walk around Alaşehir.
- Opening hours may vary: check the official page before going.
Questions
When is Alaşehir Archaeological Site open?
According to the Ministry’s listing it opens at 08:00 and closes at 17:00 (last entry 16:30). Open every day.
Can I buy tickets for Alaşehir Archaeological Site on this site?
No. This site sells no tickets. Topkapı Palace, the Basilica Cistern, Hagia Sophia and Dolmabahçe Palace are sold on our sister sites; for Alaşehir Archaeological Site, buy at the ticket office or on the Ministry’s official e-ticket system.
Where is Alaşehir Archaeological Site?
Alaşehir Archaeological Site is in Manisa, Türkiye — Soğuksu Mahallesi, İsmet Paşa Cd., 45600.
More museums in Manisa
Istanbul tickets online
Four Istanbul landmarks, each sold on its own site by the agency behind this guide — dated entry and free cancellation up to 24 hours.
Basilica Cistern
Justinian’s great underground reservoir: 336 columns in still water and the two Medusa heads. Fast-track entry with a digital audio guide.
Hagia Sophia
Justinian’s cathedral, the sultans’ mosque and a working mosque again today. The ticket admits you to the upper visitor gallery.
Dolmabahçe Palace
A nineteenth-century palace on the water’s edge: the Selamlık, the Ceremonial Hall under its chandelier, the crystal staircase and the Harem.