Aegeae (Aigai) Ancient City & Asklepion Healing Temple

History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore Aegeae (Aigai / Ayas), one of the most strategic military and commercial port cities of the Mediterranean in ancient times, was the heart of eastern trade during the Hellenistic, Roman and Cilician Armenian Kingdom periods. The temple (Asklepieion), dedicated to the world-famous god of medicine, Asklepios, was one of the three largest healing centers of the ancient world, along with Pergamum and Epidaurus. World-famous traveler Marco Polo started his great Asian journey to the palace of Kublai Khan in 1271 by sailing from Aegeae (Ayas) Port. In the region, it was believed that the healing spring waters of the ancient city and the dreams of Asklepion would cure all kinds of incurable diseases. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features The altitude is approximately 5 - 20 meters above sea level. It is built on natural capes and slopes extending to the clear waters of the Gulf of Iskenderun; It is surrounded by Mediterranean maquis and olive groves. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees