People planning to take a budget holiday in Turkey in the months of June and July will want to make sure they stop in Aspendos to take in an annual international festival.
The centuries-old amphitheatre is located nearby the popular holiday resort of Antalya and for a few weeks each summer, it becomes the site of several world-class outdoor theatre, music and dance performances.
Holidaymakers visiting the area at this time of year will find that the Aspendos International Ballet and Opera Festival provides the perfect excuse to inject some added history and culture into their Turkish escape.
An ancient amphitheatre
Aspendos is thought to be one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman amphitheatres in the world. The structure - which overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and is also known locally as Belkis or Belkiz - was the brainchild of Roman architect Zeno, who constructed the theatre under the reign of emperor Marcus Aurelius in the second century AD.
The amphitheatre originally had a seating capacity of 12,000 and Latin engravings found near the site indicate that it was crafted as an offering to the gods and to the emperor.
A modern festival
Since 1994, the historic amphitheatre has been home to the Aspendos International Opera and Ballet festival, which traditionally takes place in June and early July.
Participants from Turkey and several other countries around the world - including Germany and the UK - flock to the region for the event to showcase the best they have to offer when it comes to ballet and opera.
In years gone by, previous productions that have graced the stage at Aspendos include a presentation of The Magic Flute by Germany's Deutsche Oper Berlin, a performance of Manon by London's Royal Ballet and Aida, performed by the Ankara State Opera.
A perfect holiday
When the music and dancing are over, holidaymakers needn't fret, as nearby Antalya is the ideal place to spend time relaxing in the sun.
The popular holiday resort has something for everyone - visitors can make a visit to the prize-winning marina, explore Antalya's palm-lined boulevards or take some time to learn about the region's religious history by paying a visit to one of its many mosques.
Whatever holidaymakers are after - culture, a city break or fun in the sun - they are certain to find it all and much more during a summer trip to Antalya and Aspendos.
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ReplyDeleteTurkey is a land with hundreds of possibilities. Whether you are a culture buff, love clubbing, want to stay active or simply take in the sights, the country is an ideal location for a holiday. Turkey's activities can stand proudly up against some of the world's best holiday destinations. Thanks a lot...
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