Sart (ancient Sardis) sits in western Turkey, about an hour's drive from Izmir. The ruins here tell the story of one of the richest cities in the ancient world - it was the capital of the Lydian Empire and where they first started minting coins.
The town is dotted with ancient sites. The main point of interest is the complex that contains Roman baths and gymnasium, and a restored synagogue with beautiful mosaics. A short walk or drive away is the Temple of Artemis. The best part might be that unlike Ephesus, Sart doesn't get crowded with tourists - you can often explore the ruins almost by yourself.
The ancient city was built against the slopes of what's now called Boz Dağı (the ancient Mount Tmolus), and you can still see remains of the Lydian walls and gates climbing up the hillside.
Harvard University and Cornell University have been involved in the excavation and restoration work at Sardis since 1958, with archaeologists working on various projects including stabilizing ancient structures, reconstructing fallen columns, and preserving delicate features like the synagogue's mosaics. Read more about the archaeological exploration of Sardis. If you're interested in archaeology or just want to see a less touristy ancient site in Turkey, Sart is worth the trip.
Top Sights in Sart
Sardis Ancient City
The ancient city of Sardis was the the capital of the Lydian kingdom and a center of culture and trade. The Roman bath gymnasium complex, a vast structure featuring large courtyards and marble-paved rooms, served as a hub for physical training, education, and public baths. The synagogue, located adjacent to the gymnasium, included intricately designed mosaics and stone benches. Excavations have revealed urban streets lined with shops, a drainage system, and residential quarters.
Temple of Artemis
The Temple of Artemis was one of the largest temples of the ancient world, dedicated to Artemis, the goddess of the hunt and fertility. Built during the Hellenistic period in the 3rd century BCE, the temple was an impressive example of Ionic architecture. Though never completed, it showcased massive columns and intricate stonework, reflecting the wealth and artistic ambition of Sardis during this time. The temple was later used during Roman times, incorporating a small Christian church within its ruins, demonstrating the religious transformations of the region over centuries.
Visiting Information
Hours & Entrance Fee
Visiting hours are daily from 8am-5pm.
An entrance ticket is 3 Euros with free parking on site.
You can easily explore the main complex within 1 hour, and the Temple of Artemis in around 30 minutes.
History
Sardis was the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Lydia, ruled by King Croesus (560-546 BC). Later, it was an important Roman city. Sardis, one of the historical cities of Asia Minor, is also among one of the seven churches of Asia referenced in the book of Revelations.
Located 90 km (56 miles) east of İzmir (map) next to the town of Sartmahmut, Sardis (Sart in Turkish) is a large archeological site with lots to see. Guided tours are available from İzmir and Ephesus/Kuşadası.
The great Temple of Artemis was begun in 334 BC, reconfigured over the centuries in various architectural styles, but never finished.
The 2nd-century AD Marble Court of the Hall of the Imperial Cult complex has been extensively restored, as has been the huge, rich Roman synagogue.
Sardis is a large site divided by the İzmir-Uşak highway (E96/D300), with the Marble Court and synagogue on the north side, and the Temple of Artemis about 1 km (6/10 mile) to the south, along with remnants of a Byzantine church, a late Roman villa.
The River Pactolus, now called the Gediz Nehri, passes along the western edge of the site. The ancient Lydians gathered gold dust from its waters by placing sheepskins in the water which collected the dust. According to legend, the gold came from the Phrygian King Midas who, cursed with the golden touch, washed in the Pactolus to rid himself of it. You can visit the site of the Lydians' gold refinery.
Transportation
You can see Sardis on a day-trip from İzmir (90 km/56 miles, 75 minutes), either by private car or by frequent regional minibus or, less conveniently, by train. It's also possible to visit Sart as part of a guided tour, combined with Izmir or a 7 Churches Tour.
From İzmir's Otogar (bus terminal), go to the İlçe Peronları (EEL-cheh peh-rohn-lah-ruh, regional gates) to catch a minibus for Salihli, the town just beyond Sardis, and ask to be let out at Sartmustafa.
There are two morning trains and one afternoon train from İzmir's Alsancak station toward Uşak and Alaşehir that take 2.5 hours to travel the 120 km (75 miles) of track to the Sartmahmut station one km (6/10 mile) north of the Sardis archeological site. Two returning trains from Sartmahmut to İzmir (Alsancak) depart Sartmahmut in the morning and one in the evening.
The nearest hotels are in Salihli and Manisa, but the greatest selection is İzmir hotels.
Distances & Travel Times
Alaşehir (Philadelphia): 58 km (36 miles) SE, 1 hour
İzmir: 90 km (56 miles) W, 1.5 hours
Manisa: 58 km (36 miles) NW, 1 hour
Salihli: 10 km (6 miles) E, 15 minutes
(Ephesus): 121 km (75 miles) SW, 2.25 hours
Uşak: 144 km (90 miles) E, 2.25 hours
—by Tom Brosnahan, updated by Kimberly Price
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