Adada Ancient City

Adada Ancient City

Adada is a historical city and archaeological site located in Pisidia, to the north of Selge and east of the Kestros River. The village of Sağrak, west of Lake Egridir, is situated close to the site.

The origins of Adada date back to the 2nd century BC, according to an agreement document discovered in Termessos. This document established a friendship between Adada and Termessos, two important towns in the region, to jointly confront Selge, their common enemy. Historical records indicate that Selge pursued an imperialist policy against Termessos during the Hellenistic era, making the alliance between Adada and Termessos significant in resisting Selge.

Adada Ancient City

During the Roman Imperial period, the reigns of Emperor Traianus, Hadrianus, and Antonius Pius were notable periods of prosperity for Adada. The site contains an ancient road with a stone floor, the Temple of Trajan, and the Temple of Emperors. The temple area also encompasses the Temple to Zeus Megistos-Serapis in the city.

The archaeological site of Adada boasts several impressive structures from the ancient city. Among them are a forum, basilica, acropolis, monumental fountain, administrative building, open-air meeting place, theater, and a grave monument.

The acropolis, situated between the city section and the valley, served as a defensive structure, fortified by walls and towers. Meanwhile, the western section of the site contains an open-air meeting place for city gatherings.

The forum and basilica, which eventually became a bustling commercial center, were erected in front of this meeting area. The Adada Forum covers a vast expanse of 32x45 meters and features a central cistern surrounded by smooth stone pathways and three stoas on each side. The basilica, positioned north of the forum, runs in an east-west direction. Lastly, a monumental fountain can be found at the southeast corner of the complex.