Sardis Ancient City

Where money was born, the magnificent capital of Lydia: Sardis, the Golden City

From the Invention of Money to the World's Largest Necropolis

From the coins in our pockets today to massive digital transfers in global markets, every economic movement originates from an ancient city in the heart of Anatolia. The address of that legendary splendor, synonymous with the phrase "Rich as Croesus," is Sardis, the capital of the Lydian Kingdom.

Located at the foot of Mount Tmolos (Bozdag) in Salihli, Manisa, this 3300-year-old city is not only where money was invented but also a cultural treasure registered on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2025. The eons-old Royal Road, connecting the West to the East, began right here.

"Lydians were not only the inventors of money but also the founders of the capitalist system. They shaped the future economically by leading the way in generating material wealth."

Sardis hides a story in every stone, from gold refining workshops to monumental temples. Destina Transfer offers you the opportunity to explore this laboratory of economy and history with the highest level of comfort.

Sardis Gymnasium and Marble Road

5 Mind-Blowing Facts About Sardis

A journey of discovery from the birth of the economy to ancient engineering wonders.

Birth of Money

The first state-guaranteed coins were minted here. The gold silt from the Pactolus River was the source of King Croesus' legendary wealth.

Bin Tepe

The world's largest tumulus site. Among the 119 royal tombs, the one belonging to King Alyattes is the largest burial structure in Anatolia.

Ancient Heating

Byzantine shops were heated by a thermal water system passing through terra-cotta pipes. A modern comfort vision from the ancient world.

1911 Steam Crane

A 5-ton steam crane at the Temple of Artemis bears witness to the history of archaeology, where the industrial revolution met the ancient world.

The Royal Road

The center of the Royal Road stretching from Ephesus to Persepolis. A city of tolerance housing the ancient world's 3rd largest synagogue.

Sardis Visit & Transport Guide

How to Get There?

Izmir Transfer: Sardis is 110 km from Izmir Airport (ADB). We provide transport in ~80 minutes with our VIP vehicles.

Must-See

Temple of Artemis, the Gymnasium, the Ancient Synagogue, Lydian gold workshops, and the Bin Tepe Tumuli area.

What to Eat?

Don't leave without eating Salihli's famous Odun Kofte (wood-fired meatballs). The region is also famous for seedless grapes.

Best Time

Spring and Autumn offer the most ideal temperatures to explore this UNESCO site without fatigue.

Sardis Ancient City Travel & History Guide

Explore the golden heritage of Sardis Ancient City, the legendary capital of the Lydian Kingdom and a UNESCO World Heritage site. In this video, we delve into the world-changing invention of money (coinage), the monumental Temple of Artemis, and the sophisticated life of the city famously ruled by the ultra-wealthy King Croesus.

What to Expect in This Video?

  • Birth of Modern Economy: How the Lydians invented the first state-guaranteed coins and revolutionized global trade.
  • The Great Gymnasium & Synagogue: Discover the massive bath-gymnasium complex and one of the largest ancient synagogues in the world.
  • Temple of Artemis: Architectural secrets of one of the seven largest Greek temples ever built.
  • Bin Tepe (The Thousand Hills): The mysterious royal necropolis featuring the largest tumuli in Anatolia.
  • The Royal Road: The history of the legendary highway that connected the Mediterranean to the Persian Empire.
  • Sardis VIP Tours: Practical guide for private transfers from Izmir and luxury transportation options to Salihli.

To witness the birthplace of money and the magnificent marble remains of Sardis in person, book our premium VIP transfer services for a seamless historical journey.