Ayas Ancient City
Located in the town center of Yumurtalık, Aigeai was an important port city in the ancient period of Cilicia Pedias (Bottomland Cilicia), east of Ceyhan River and west of İskenderun Bay. The city was named Aigeai in the Hellenistic Period, Aegeae in the Roman Period, Ajazzo in the Middle Ages, and Ayas in the later periods. According to the city coins, the history of the city dates to the 2nd century BCE. The ancient authors Pausanias, Tacitus and Strabon mentioned the ancient city of Aigeai in their works. Aegeae was free during the Roman empire and was used as a strategically important naval base. One of the three biggest Asclepius Temples of the ancient world is in this city. Asclepion, the health center of the city, is famous. It is written that Emperor Caracalla, who visited the city in the summer of 215 CE, got rid of his troubles in this Asclepion. This is one of the temple-hospitals called Asklepion where the first medical education was given in history. The visible ruins of the city Ayas Harbor Castle, Deniz Castle, Süleyman Tower, wall ruins, bath ruins, colonnaded street, rock tombs and sarcophagi, votive stones, round altars, pipes, sculpture pieces, millstones, inscriptions and architectural building elements. A group of mosaics were found during the excavations. Eros (cupid), hippocampos (seahorses) and fish are depicted in the mosaics and are now exhibited in the Adana Museum.
See on map
Reasons to Love
Explore experiences around
History whispers, nature mesmerizes, adventures abound… Embark on a unique journey and discover experiences beyond comparison. Türkiye’s endless wonders await your arrival.
Discover Culinary Delights: Where Taste Meets Tradition
Eating and drinking are among the most delightful ways to explore a city. In this section, you’ll find a wide array of flavors, from traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients to modern culinary creations. Whether you're in search of street food or looking for an exquisite dining experience in a fine restaurant, this city offers plenty of options to satisfy your taste buds.