Panionion Ancient Sanctuary (12 Ionian City Union Center)

History and General Information / Local Legends and Folklore Panionion is the central sanctuary of the political and religious confederation established by 12 independent Ionian city-states (Miletos, Ephesos, Priene, Teos, Phokaia, Samos, Chios etc.) that determined the fate of the Aegean world in ancient times. In this sacred area, founded in the 8th century BC, magnificent sacrifice ceremonies and "Panionia" festivals were held in the name of Poseidon Helikonios, the god of the seas, and the delegates of the Ionian cities would gather in parliament and make common defense and trade decisions. This area, praised in the texts of Herodotus, the father of history, is one of the first federal parliament centers of the ancient world. Geographical Structure, Altitude and Natural Features It is located at an altitude of approximately 140 meters above sea level, on the northern slope of the Dilek Peninsula, at the foot of Mykale (Samsun Mountain), on an olive grove overlooking the Güzelçamlı town. Visiting Hours, Days and Entrance Fees