Sardes Ancient City: A New UNESCO Treasure to Explore
On July 12, 2025, Sardes Ancient City in Manisa, Türkiye, joined the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List during the 47th Session of the World Heritage Committee in Paris. As Türkiye’s 22nd UNESCO site, Sardes, the ancient capital of the Lydian Kingdom, shines as a beacon of human history. Known for birthing coined money, this remarkable site invites travelers to uncover its timeless legacy. Here’s why Sardes’s UNESCO recognition is a milestone and how you can explore its wonders.
The Heart of Lydia
Nestled in Salihli, Manisa, at the base of the Bozdağ Mountains, Sardes was the vibrant center of the Lydian Kingdom in the 7th–6th centuries BCE. Under King Croesus, famed for his legendary wealth, Sardes pioneered the world’s first standardized coined money, transforming global trade. Its prime location along the ancient Royal Road made it a crossroads of cultures, linking Persia to the Greek world.
Sardes boasts a rich tapestry of history: the majestic Hellenistic Artemis Temple, a grand Roman bath-gymnasium complex, and one of the largest ancient synagogues, adorned with intricate mosaics. As one of the “Seven Churches of Asia” mentioned in the Book of Revelation, Sardes also holds profound Christian significance, making it a must-visit for history and spirituality enthusiasts alike.
A UNESCO Milestone
Recognized under UNESCO’s criterion (iii) for its exceptional testimony to Lydian civilization, Sardes’s inscription follows years of dedication by the Sardes Excavation Directorate and Türkiye’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Turkish Minister Mehmet Nuri Ersoy celebrated the achievement, stating, “Sardes, where coined money was born, is now a shared heritage of humanity.” This global recognition ensures Sardes’s preservation and invites travelers to experience its historical splendor.
Explore Sardes with Guided Adventures
Sardes is more than a destination—it’s a journey through time. Walk among the Artemis Temple’s towering columns, marvel at the ancient synagogue’s artistry, or stand atop the acropolis for breathtaking views. Türkiye’s “night museum” initiative lets you experience Sardes under the stars, paired perfectly with Salihli’s culinary delights like odun köftesi (wood-fire meatballs).
Ready to discover Sardes? Join our Sardes Tour from Izmir, a guided day trip exploring the ancient capital’s highlights, from the Artemis Temple to the historic synagogue, with expert insights and a taste of local cuisine. For a deeper spiritual journey, our Seven Churches of Revelation tour from Izmir takes you through Sardes and other biblical sites like Ephesus and Pergamon, tracing the footsteps of early Christianity. Both tours offer a seamless way to connect with Sardes’s rich history.
Your Invitation to History
Sardes’s UNESCO status is a call to explore a city that shaped civilization. Book your spot on one of our curated tours and step into the heart of Lydia, where ancient wonders await.
Discover more about our Sardes Tour from Izmir or embark on the Seven Churches of Revelation journey today!