A mix of ancient architecture and bustling markets, Akhisar sits in the province of Manisa in Western Turkey. Previously known as Thyatira, Akhisar is the fourth biggest city in the province.
Things to do in Akhisar
Though there are many modern buildings now present in Akhisar, signs of Thyatira are still present. Keep your eyes peeled for ancient stones and column heads hidden on street corners.
One of the best insights into Thyatira is the area known as Tepe Mezari which holds ruins dating back to 3000 BC. Historians can take a 20-minute walk to the ruins from Akhisar bus station and revel in the ancient settlements.
Akhisar also holds a lot of religious purposes, as the Church of Thyatira was the fourth of seven churches of Asia Minor to receive an epistle from St. John. As such, the city is considered a sacred destination.
Just a 20-minute drive south of Akhisar sits the town of Golmarmara, named after Lake Marmara that located just 20 minutes south. The picturesque lake is considered a local recreation area and makes for a fun day out.
Getting around Akhisar
Akhisar is less than a two-hour drive from Izmir Adnan Menderes Airport, where a car hire or taxi is the most suitable form of transport. The town itself is small enough to explore on foot.