Uzuncaburç rises: Türkiye’s forgotten city of gods finds new life

The ancient city of Uzuncaburç, nestled in the Silifke district of Türkiye's Mersin Province, is poised to become a global hub for cultural tourism.

Uzuncaburç, a highland village in Türkiye’s Mersin Province, is home to the ancient city of Diokaisareia—once a sacred center of the Olba Kingdom. Towering at 1,200 meters in the Taurus Mountains, its Temple of Zeus still stands with 36 majestic columns. Though little known, Uzuncaburç contains a rare Roman nymphaeum and stone-paved streets aligned with celestial bodies—clues to its spiritual and astronomical significance in antiquity. Photo by x Zekeriyasen on Unsplash

Dating back to the 4th century B.C., this archaeological treasure is undergoing significant restoration and development efforts aimed at preserving its rich heritage and enhancing its appeal to visitors worldwide.

As Uzuncaburç opens its gates to the world, it offers a unique opportunity to explore the confluence of history, culture, and community in one of Türkiye's most treasured ancient cities.

 Recent restoration efforts and promotional initiatives led by the Mersin Metropolitan Municipality aim to increase its visibility and attract more tourists. These projects include infrastructure improvements, landscaping, and enhanced transportation facilities to provide a more comfortable experience for visitors . Photo: Yılmaz Kilim, Wikipedia CC BY 3.0

A glimpse into antiquity

Uzuncaburç, historically known as Diokaisareia, served as a sacred site during the Hellenistic period under the Olba Kingdom. Later, under Roman rule, it evolved into a prominent city featuring remarkable structures such as the Temple of Zeus, monumental gates, an ancient theater, and a colonnaded street. The Temple of Zeus, in particular, stands out with its 36 towering columns, exemplifying the architectural grandeur of the era.

Revitalization efforts

In recent years, concerted efforts have been made to restore and promote Uzuncaburç as a significant cultural destination. The Mersin Metropolitan Municipality, in collaboration with archaeologists and cultural experts, has initiated various projects, including infrastructure improvements, landscaping, and the restoration of historical structures. These initiatives aim to provide visitors with a comprehensive and immersive experience, blending the ancient city's historical significance with modern amenities.

Community integration and sustainable tourism

A key aspect of the revitalization project is the integration of the local community into the tourism framework. Restoration plans include the refurbishment of traditional Yörük houses at the city's entrance, intended to serve as boutique hotels, cafes, or exhibition spaces. This approach not only preserves the cultural fabric of the region but also promotes sustainable tourism by involving local residents in the economic development process.

Future prospects

With its rich historical tapestry and ongoing development, Uzuncaburç is set to emerge as a prominent destination for cultural enthusiasts and tourists alike. The collaborative efforts between governmental bodies, archaeologists, and the local community underscore a commitment to preserving the site's legacy while fostering economic growth through tourism.

Basic facts about Uzuncaburç

Uzuncaburç is a neighborhood in the Silifke district of Mersin Province, Turkey. It is located approximately 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) north of the town of Silifke and about 103 kilometers (64 miles) from the provincial capital, Mersin.​

The area is renowned for the ancient city of Diokaisareia (also known as Diocaesarea), which dates back to the Hellenistic period and later became part of the Roman Empire. Notable historical structures in Uzuncaburç include the Temple of Zeus Olbios, the Temple of Tyche, a Roman theater, and a monumental city gate .​

The village itself is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,200 meters (3,937 feet) above sea level, offering scenic views of the surrounding Taurus Mountains .​

Visitors can reach Uzuncaburç by traveling north from Silifke, passing through villages such as Demircili and İmamlı. Public transportation options include buses that depart from Silifke to Uzuncaburç several times a day .​

• Modern name: Uzuncaburç (means «Tall Tower» in Turkish)

• Ancient name: Diokaisareia

• Location: Silifke district, Mersin Province, southern Türkiye

• Founded: 4th century B.C., during the Hellenistic period

• Former Kingdom: Olba Kingdom, later part of the Roman Empire

Major structures and features

• Temple of Zeus Olbios: One of the best-preserved temples in Türkiye, with 36 standing columns

• City Gate (Propylon): Monumental entrance to the ancient city

• Colonnaded street: Once the main ceremonial street of the city

• Theater: Small Roman-style theater carved into the hillside

• Agora: Central public space of commerce and gathering

• City walls: Fortifications that marked Uzuncaburç’s boundaries

Cultural and historical importance

• Served as a religious center for the priest-kings of the Olba Kingdom

• Became a Roman colony city in the 1st century B.C.

• Shows a blend of Hellenistic and Roman architecture

• Played a central role in the sacred landscape of ancient Cilicia

Recent developments

• Restoration and tourism development supported by Mersin Metropolitan Municipality

• Plans include:

  Restoring Yörük houses for tourism use (boutique hotels, cafes, museums)

  Landscaping and infrastructure upgrades

  Sustainable tourism focus with local community involvement

Visitor Highlights

• Easily accessible from Silifke and Mersin city

• Offers a mix of archaeological exploration and local culture

• Spectacular views of the Taurus Mountains and rural Anatolia