Priene

Priene, formerly an ancient harbor town is the first stop in the tri-fecta tour of Priene, Miletus, and Didyma. Apparently it’s in the record books for having the first woman mayor. She was very industrious and was instrumental in designing the first water supply and drainage system, as well as the placement of street names on the walls. Also, at this amazing site you will see the remains of the grand Temple of Athena, built by the architect Pythius, who designed the famed Mausoleum of Halicarnassus. This Mausoleum was one of the 7 Wonders of the World. While you are here, you will learn that Alexander the Great had gone to Miletus and the townspeople wouldn’t let him stay so he came back to Priene. Today you will see the location of his house that is situated at the western gate side of the main avenue. In the extreme south of Priene, there is the lower Gymnasium, Stadium and a small museum.  9 Euros allows entry into Priene plus Myletus and Didyma.

*note: A good idea is to buy a book on these three locations to help retain all the amazing facts you will be learning today.