The ruins of the Carian city lie south of Aydin, in the village of Doganyurt (former Araphisar village). Take the highway running between Aydin and Mugla. The ruins of Alabanda are located 7 kilometers west of Cine, south of the Meander river, west of Marsias or the Turkish Cine cayi (river). The city was situated on a broad plain at the foot of two hills to the south. This plain made up the territory of Alabanda which was controlled from the acropolis on the eastern hill.


The earliest founding of Alabanda is attributed to the mythological King Kar who won a decisive cavalry battle on this plain. The name of the city is derived from the combination of two Carian words, ‘ala’, horse and ‘banda’, victory.

During the rule of the Seleucids, in the end of 3C BC, the city’s name was changed to Antiocheia. This was a way of showing gratitude to the Seleucid king, Antiochus III, who protected the city’s peaceful administration. City’s name was restored to Alabanda when, in 190 BC, the Seleucid domination was put to an end during the battle of Magnesia, and together with the other Carian cities it came under the rule of Rhodes.

During the Roman control, Alabanda enjoyed a considerable degree of freedom and sustained good relations with the Empire. The city was immune from taxation with the status of “convectus”, a special rank from the provincial governor. During Byzantine period city became a bishopric center.

Alabanda had always been an important center, enjoying a great deal of prosperity and culture. A valuable gift to Rome as well as a temple in her honor were tributes to the imperial city in 170 BC. The earliest silver coins were minted with the old name Antiocheia, in 2C BC. During the 1C BC the city gained a reputation of luxury and debauchery from its wealthy citizens. Natural resources and raw-materials were abundant in the area and included dark marble used in glass-making. A unique gem, similar to garnet, was also mined and exported.

The city’s craftsmen were especially noted for making crystal from locally produced glass. Sculptors thrived as did stone-cutters and other building craftsmen as the need for elaborate structures grew – especially religious buildings. The architecture was primarily of the Roman type. Many exceptional friezes were uncovered at the site; several depicted the Greek and Amazon wars.