Priene: A History Odyssey

Priene is an ancient Greek city located in modern-day western Turkey. It was an important city in Ionia, a region on the western coast of Asia Minor (now Turkey). Priene is known for its well-preserved and planned city structure, providing a glimpse of the urban layout common in the Hellenistic period.

The city was founded in the 11th century BCE and flourished during the 7th and 6th centuries BCE. It was home to Bias of Priene, one of the Seven Sages of Greece. The city was eventually moved to its current location around 350 BCE due to silting from the Meander River.

Priene’s most famous structure is the Temple of Athena, built by the architect Pytheos and funded by Alexander the Great. Other notable structures include the theater, the bouleuterion (council house), the prytaneion (town hall), and various temples and public squares.

The city’s design is an excellent example of Hippodamian planning, also known as a grid system. This layout was named after the Greek architect Hippodamus of Miletus, who is often credited as the “father” of city planning.

Today, the ruins of Priene are a popular archaeological site. The city’s well-planned streets, public spaces, and private houses offer an opportunity to walk through a city designed and built more than 2,300 years ago. The site also provides a stunning view of the surrounding plains and mountains.

Priene is located in modern-day Turkey, near the town of Soke in the Aydin province. Here’s how you can get there:

By Air:

The nearest airport to Priene is Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport (ADB), which is approximately 110 kilometers away. You can fly into Izmir from various international destinations or take a domestic flight if you’re already in Turkey. Once at the airport, you can rent a car or take a taxi to Priene.

By Road:

If you’re already in Turkey, you might choose to drive or take a bus to Priene. The drive from Izmir takes about 1.5 hours, and from the popular tourist city of Kusadasi, it’s about an hour. If you’re in Soke, Priene is only about 15 kilometers away. Car rentals are available in most Turkish cities, and there’s also an extensive network of intercity buses.

By Tour:

Many travel companies offer day trips to Priene, often combined with other nearby ancient sites such as Miletus and Didyma. These tours typically include transportation, a guide, and sometimes lunch.

By Public Transport:

Public transport to Priene is a bit limited. There are minibusses (dolmus) from Soke to the nearby village of Gullubahce, but from there you’ll need to walk about 2 kilometers to the site.

Packing for a trip to Priene, like any archaeological site, will depend on the time of year you’re visiting and the specific activities you plan to do. Here are some general items you should consider packing:

Comfortable Walking Shoes: Priene is an archaeological site, which means you’ll be walking on uneven surfaces. Make sure to pack sturdy, comfortable shoes.

Weather-Appropriate Clothing: During the summer, it can get very hot, so lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. In the cooler months, layering is a good idea. Remember to pack a rain jacket or umbrella if you’re visiting during the rainy season.

Sun Protection: The site is exposed, and the sun can be quite strong, especially in the summer. Pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Water Bottle: It’s important to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months. Consider bringing a reusable water bottle that you can refill throughout the day.

Snacks: There may not be many options for food at the site itself, so consider packing some snacks.

Camera: Priene offers stunning views and well-preserved ruins, so you’ll likely want to take photos.

Guidebook and Map: These can enhance your understanding of the site and help you navigate the ruins.

Backpack: A small backpack can be useful for carrying your water, snacks, and any other items you’ll need throughout the day.

Hand Sanitizer and Tissues: These can be handy for personal cleanliness, especially as public restrooms at archaeological sites can sometimes be basic.

Binoculars: These can be helpful for a closer look at architectural details on the ruins.

There are several nearby towns and cities where you can find a range of accommodations. Here are a few options:

Soke: Located approximately 15 kilometers from Priene, Soke is a local town with a range of accommodations. While it’s not a major tourist destination, it could serve as a convenient base for exploring Priene and other nearby historical sites.

Kusadasi: This is a popular coastal resort town about an hour’s drive from Priene. It offers a wide range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury. Kusadasi also has many restaurants, shops, and nightlife options, making it a good choice if you’re looking for a more lively base.

Selcuk: Selcuk is another good option, particularly if you’re planning to visit Ephesus as well. It’s about an hour’s drive from Priene and offers a range of accommodation options, from small guest houses to larger hotels. Selcuk is a charming town with a laid-back atmosphere, and it’s home to several historical sites itself.

Izmir: If you prefer to stay in a larger city, Izmir could be a good choice. It’s approximately 1.5 hours by car from Priene. As the third-largest city in Turkey, Izmir offers a broad range of accommodations, extensive dining and shopping options, and a rich cultural scene.

Priene, located in western Turkey, has a Mediterranean climate, which is characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Summer (June – August): Summers are hot and dry with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), and sometimes even reaching up to 40°C (104°F). Rainfall is scarce during this period.

Autumn (September – November): Temperatures start to cool down gradually, but the weather remains mostly pleasant and sunny. Rainfall begins to increase in November.

Winter (December – February): Winters are mild and wet. The temperatures usually range between 5°C (41°F) and 15°C (59°F), and this is the period when Priene receives the majority of its annual rainfall.

Spring (March-May): Spring is characterized by increasing temperatures and decreasing rainfall. By May, the weather is typically warm and increasingly sunny, making it a popular time to visit.

The best time to visit Priene, as with most Mediterranean destinations, is usually during the spring (March to June) and autumn (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant, with mild temperatures and lower chances of rain, making it ideal for outdoor exploration of archaeological sites. These seasons also tend to be less crowded with tourists compared to the summer months.

The summer months (July and August) can be quite hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), which might be uncomfortable for some, especially when touring outdoor archaeological sites. However, if you don’t mind the heat, summer can still be a good time to visit.

Winter months (December to February) are mild but can be rainy, and while the archaeological site is open year-round, the experience might be somewhat dampened by the weather.

Always remember to check the specific opening hours of the site as well as any local holidays that might affect your visit.

Priene, an ancient Greek city in western Turkey, was once an important Ionian city-state. Its history dates back to the 2nd millennium BCE, but the city’s most prosperous period was during the 4th century BCE when it was a member of the Ionian League. The city’s well-planned grid layout is an example of the Hippodamian city plan, a planning method attributed to the Greek architect Hippodamus of Miletus.

The city was originally located near the mouth of the Meander River. However, the river’s sedimentation process eventually led to Priene becoming landlocked, causing its decline as a port city. Over time, the city’s inhabitants were forced to move to more accessible locations, and Priene was eventually abandoned.

Despite its decline, Priene boasts a rich history:

Founding and Early History: Priene was founded around 1000 BCE by Ionians who migrated from mainland Greece. The city was a member of the Panionium, an Ionian religious and political center, and played an important role in the Ionian Revolt against Persian rule (499-494 BCE).

Classical Period: After the Persians defeated the Ionian Revolt, Priene fell under Persian control. It wasn’t until the arrival of Alexander the Great in 334 BCE that the city was liberated from Persian rule. The Temple of Athena Polias, built during this period and dedicated to Athena, was partially funded by Alexander the Great.

Hellenistic Period: Priene flourished under the Hellenistic Kingdom of Pergamon, becoming an important regional center. Many of the city’s most impressive buildings, including the agora, the theater, and the gymnasium, were constructed during this time.

Roman and Byzantine Periods: Priene eventually became part of the Roman Empire in 129 BCE and later the Byzantine Empire. While the city continued to exist during these periods, it gradually declined in importance, partly due to the silting of the Meander River.

Excavations and Modern Rediscovery: The ruins of Priene were rediscovered by European travelers in the 17th century. Systematic excavations began in the late 19th century, and ongoing archaeological work has uncovered many well-preserved structures, providing valuable insights into ancient Greek urban planning and architecture.

Priene, while perhaps not as well-known as some other ancient Greek cities, has a rich history and made significant contributions in several areas. Here are a few of the “firsts” and “greatest” associated with Priene:

First Example of the Hippodamian Plan: Priene’s city plan is one of the earliest and most complete examples of the grid-like street layout known as the Hippodamian plan, named after the ancient Greek architect Hippodamus of Miletus. This layout divided the city into blocks with streets intersecting at right angles, a design that influenced city planning for centuries.

The Temple of Athena Polias: This temple, dedicated to the city’s patron goddess Athena, is one of the greatest architectural accomplishments of Priene. The temple, designed by the architect Pytheos, is known for its classic proportions and elegant Ionic style. It’s said that Alexander the Great funded its completion, signifying its importance during its time.

The Bouleuterion (Council House): The Bouleuterion of Priene is one of the best-preserved examples of a Greek city council house. With its intact rows of stone seating and central speaker’s platform, it provides a unique glimpse into the political life of an ancient Greek city-state.

Pioneering Democracy: Priene, like many Ionian cities, had a democratic system of government. It was here that Bias of Priene, one of the Seven Sages of Greece, set the city’s laws. His guidelines aimed at ensuring fairness and equality among citizens, demonstrating the early democratic principles of the city.

The Home of Bias of Priene: Bias of Priene was one of the Seven Sages of Greece, a group of 7th and 6th-century BCE thinkers known for their wisdom and philosophical insights. While not a “first” or “greatest” in the traditional sense, the fact that such a renowned figure hailed from Priene is certainly notable.

While the city of Priene may not have had the same lasting impact as some larger ancient cities, its contributions to urban planning, architecture, and democratic thought were significant in their own right. Today, the ruins of Priene provide a fascinating look into the life and achievements of an ancient Greek city-state.

Priene, an ancient city located in present-day Turkey, is rich with historical landmarks and ruins that date back to its time as a prominent Ionian city-state. Here are some of the most notable historical sites in Priene:

The Temple of Athena Polias: This is one of the most well-preserved structures in Priene. Funded in part by Alexander the Great, this temple was dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of the city. It’s an excellent example of Ionic architecture.

The Theater: This ancient Greek theater could seat around 5,000 spectators. It offers a stunning view of the surrounding plains and mountains. The theater was used for both performances and city meetings.

The Bouleuterion (Council House): The Bouleuterion is one of the best-preserved council houses from the ancient Greek world. It was the political center of the city, where the city council would meet to discuss and make decisions.

The Agora (Marketplace): The agora was the commercial and social heart of Priene. Several stoas (covered walkways or porticoes) and other structures are still visible.

The Gymnasium: The ruins of this large complex suggest that it once included a sports field, a palaestra (wrestling school), and perhaps a library. It was a center for both physical education and intellectual pursuits.

The Houses: Several well-preserved houses provide a glimpse into everyday life in an ancient Greek city. The House of Alexander is particularly notable, named so because of an inscription found there suggesting it was dedicated to Alexander the Great.

The City Walls: Parts of the city walls, which once protected Priene from invaders, are still visible. They offer a sense of the city’s original size and layout.

The Sacred Way: This road once connected the city with the Temple of Athena. Parts of the road can still be followed today.

The most famous historical figure associated with Priene is likely Bias of Priene, who is considered one of the Seven Sages of Greece. These seven individuals were early 6th century BCE philosophers, statesmen, and lawgivers who were renowned in the following centuries for their wisdom.

Bias was known for his goodness and advocacy for justice. Many maxims and wise sayings are attributed to him, such as “Most men are bad” and “Practice is everything.” He is also said to have been a skilled orator and was highly respected as a wise, fair, and benevolent statesman.

While not much is known about his life, and many stories about him have likely been exaggerated or mythologized over time, Bias of Priene’s reputation as a wise sage has made him a notable figure in the history of Western philosophy.

There are several tour options available for visiting Priene, and the best one for you depends on your personal interests, your budget, and how much time you have. Here are a few examples:

Day Tours from Kusadasi or Izmir: Many tour companies offer day trips from Kusadasi or Izmir to Priene, Miletus, and Didyma, often known as the PMD tour. These tours typically include transportation, a guide, lunch, and entrance fees to the sites. They are an excellent way to see the three ancient cities in one day if you’re based in Kusadasi or Izmir.

Private Tours: If you prefer a more personal experience, consider booking a private tour. These tours are typically more flexible and can be customized to your interests. You’ll also have more opportunities to ask questions and learn from your guide.

Self-Guided Tours: If you have your own transportation and prefer to explore at your own pace, you might consider a self-guided tour. You can purchase a guidebook or download an audio guide to learn about the sites as you visit them. Keep in mind that the ancient city is vast and involves some walking on uneven surfaces, so wear comfortable shoes and bring water, especially in the summer.

Multi-Day Archaeological Tours: For those with a deep interest in history and archaeology, consider a multi-day tour that includes Priene along with several other ancient sites in the region. These tours are often led by expert guides or archaeologists and provide a more in-depth look at the history of the region.