Aspendos, located on the Euromedion River (now called Köprülü) was once the easternmost city of the kingdom of Pergamum.  In Roman times it became an important trading center.  Today its main attraction is a beautifully preserved Roman theater, built in around AD 162 by the architect Zeno.

The theater hosts the annual Aspendos opera and Ballet Festival (mid-June, early July).  The second night we were in Antalya, there was a concert at the theater, and several in our group attended.  They said the show was magnificent.  I was tired, and when I learned the group would return to the hotel after midnight, I decided not to go.  I'm still not completely sure that was a wise decision. 

I mean, just look at this place.  Wouldn't you like to see a concert right here, in the same seats where the ancient Romans used to get their entertainment?

It's a very dramatic venue.

Maybe not in the best shape, but c'mon -- it's over 1,800 years old.

Workers are removing the stage from last night's performance.

Not all the ancient architectural elements remain, but pieces have been restored.

Gaius Julius Bill

When members of our group talked about their favorite sights, this seemed never to be mentioned.  But for me this was a highlight of the trip.  Aspendos is magnificent.

Those Romans loved their arches.

The stage building features carved niches intended to hold statues.  Originally, the niches were separated by columns.

The theater can seat 12,000.

Running round the top of the theater, the restored gallery provided patrons with an all-weather vantage point.

All-in-all, a highlight of the trip.