1. A Route Where History Meets Nature
For centuries, the phrase "Rich as Croesus" has echoed as the ultimate expression of abundance and grandeur. But did you know that the lands where this legendary wealth originated still wait for us in all their glory? As you travel from Istanbul to Izmir and turn towards Salihli from Akhisar, a journey through time begins into the depths of Anatolia. In late May, this route is adorned with nature's most generous colors; lush plains merge with the aesthetics of poppies and pink blossoms.
Fact 1: The Heart of the Global Economy and the Birth of Money
The Ancient City of Sardis (Sart) was one of the most prominent metropolises of the ancient world. As the birthplace of the "Sikke" (coin), Sardis holds the title of being the place where the first gold coins in history were minted. The invention of money during the reign of King Croesus fundamentally changed trade and social structure by enabling the transition from the barter system to a standardized value system.
Fact 2: The Pyramids of Anatolia and Bintepeler
The Bintepeler region, stretching between Lake Marmara and the Gediz River, possesses a fascinating landscape as the "world's largest tumulus field." This massive area, where Lydian nobles entered their eternal sleep, was created in the 6th and 5th centuries BC. These monumental tombs, which share physical links with the "kurgan" culture of Central Asia, are unfortunately decreasing in number due to agricultural activities.
Fact 3: Alyattes' Giant Tomb and Ancient Engineering
The most magnificent tumulus in Bintepeler belongs to King Alyattes. With a diameter of 355 meters and a height of 69 meters, it is among the largest tumulus tombs in the world. Pushing the engineering limits of its era, this giant hill can only be compared to Mount Nemrut in terms of grandeur in Anatolia.
Fact 4: A Cultural Mosaic
Sardis offers immense architectural diversity. The Temple of Artemis is one of the most magnificent examples of the "Ionic order" from the Hellenistic period. Another significant stop in the city is the basilica, which was converted into a massive synagogue during the Roman period. As one of the largest ancient synagogues in the world, this structure is the most impressive evidence of religious stratification in the region.
UNESCO Heritage and Future Outlook
Sardis and Bintepeler were accepted into the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2025. The voices coming from that distant past, which invented money and "became as rich as Croesus," still whisper much to us today against the material greed of the modern world.