Some museums echo with quiet reverence, but at Andriake, history breathes — among salt-scented ruins, shipyard stones, and the whisper of olive branches swaying in the sea breeze. Nestled in the ancient harbor of Andriake, just outside Demre, the Museum of Lycian Civilizations is not only a modern exhibition space — it’s a living archaeological site.
From Port to Museum: A Brief History
Andriake was the bustling port of Myra, one of the key cities of the Lycian League. For centuries, this harbor welcomed ships from across the Mediterranean, carrying grain, wine, olive oil, and ideas. The most prominent structure that survives is the granary, built during the reign of Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century CE — and it’s within this monumental building that the Museum now resides.
Transformed with care and vision, the granary has been turned into an immersive time capsule, showcasing the depth and diversity of Lycian heritage.
What You’ll See Inside
The Museum of Lycian Civilizations walks visitors through thousands of years of Lycian history, from the Bronze Age to the Byzantine era. Artifacts come not only from Myra and Andriake, but also from across the Lycian region — cities like Xanthos, Patara, Olympos, and Tlos.
Highlights include:
- Sarcophagi, reliefs, and tomb fragments from Lycian necropolises
- Coins and seals showing Lycian political structure and artistry
- Maritime exhibits exploring the ancient economy and shipbuilding
- Interactive models and maps of Lycian cities and trade routes
- Byzantine mosaics and amphorae from the harbor’s later Christian era
The museum is beautifully curated, blending modern storytelling with ancient stone.
The Open-Air Experience
One of the most unique features of this museum is its setting. After visiting the interior, visitors can explore the wider ruins of Andriake:
- Roman baths, cisterns, and agora foundations
- A synagogue with mosaic floors, rare for the region
- Remnants of harbor warehouses and watchtowers
Walk the old stone paths and imagine sailors, merchants, and Lycian citizens going about their daily lives — centuries before Demre became a quiet coastal town.
Location: 5 km from Demre center, near Çayağzı Beach
Opening Hours: Typically 08:30–17:30 (check seasonal updates)
Entrance Fee: Included in Turkey’s Museum Pass (or low single-entry fee)
Tips:
- Combine your visit with nearby Myra ruins and Church of St. Nicholas
- Bring water and sun protection if exploring the open-air areas
- Great spot for families and curious kids — plenty to see and learn
Why It Matters
The Museum of Lycian Civilizations is more than a building. It’s a return to a time when Lycia was a maritime power, a cultural mosaic, and a beacon of democratic innovation. It gives voice to a people who left their stories in stone, sea, and song.
Andriake is where history docked — and where it quietly waits for you to come listen.
