Hadrian’s Gate Was Built in Honour of the Visit of Emperor Hadrian:
Hadrian's Gate in Kaleici
The imposing Hadrian’s Gate or Hadrianus Gate is a Roman Triumphal Arch which was built in honour of Emperor Hadrian who visited Antalya in 130AD. It has three arched gates and its Turkish name Üçkapilar means “The Three Gates”.
For hundreds of years, Hadrian’s Gate was encased in the Seljuk city walls, which might explain why it had remained undamaged. It was only uncovered in the 1950s when the walls collapsed.
The gate underwent restoration in 1959. The pavement area between the arches have been stripped down to the Roman level and through the perspex flooring, you can see the Roman floor.
Features of Hadrian’s Gate
Built completely of white marble, Hadrian’s Gate was one of the most beautiful during its time. Four Corinthian columns front each side of the arch which has striking ornamentation. The original Gate was two storeys and it is believed that statues of the Emperor and his family probably decorated the top of the layer of the arch.
The towers on either side of the Hadrian’s arch are from different periods. The tower on the left, known as Julia Sancta tower, belongs to the Roman period whereas the inscription on the right tower indicates that it was built by Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat 1 in the 13th century.
Hadrian’s Gate is the only remaining entrance gate in the old city walls which surround the ancient city of Antalya and its harbour.
If you are looking for a hotel near Hadrian’s Gate, there are a number of hotels in Kaleici old town which are within easy walking distance of Hadrian’s arch.
See more photos of Hadrian’s Gate at Travelsignposts Antalya photo gallery Here.
Map of Antalya:
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[…] When Antalya became part of the Roman Republic in 133 BC, the Romans settled in this old quarter of Antalya because of the harbour. Antalya’s old harbour was a strategic entry point and outlet for their supplies. The Romans built two protective walls, in the shape of a horseshoe – one running along the shoreline and the other inland. These walls were subsequently repaired and widened by the Seljuks. As you explore Kaleiçi or look up from the Yacht Harbour, you will see traces of the Old City Wall. Another significant reminder of Roman settlement in Kaleiçi is the impressive Hadrian’s Gate. […]