So there it is. Finally official. The Temple of Apollo in Didim was the most popular historical site in Aydin to be visited in 2024.

It is even more remarkable given that the biggest emphasis always seems to be on Aphrodiasis – and the world heritage site of Ephesus up the road!

According to data from the Aydın Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, the number of visitors to museums and historical sites in 2024 have been revealed. Aydin’s historical and cultural riches offer an opportunity to travel back in time and discover the deep traces of its past.

In total, 513,672 people visited the province’s museums and historical sites.

Top ten historic attractions

1 – The Temple of Apollo in Didim was THE most popular archaeological site of 2024 with 132,939 visitors.

2 – Aydın’s Aphrodisias Archaeological Site and Museum was visited by 120,941 people in 2024. Famous for its Roman ruins and sculptures, Aphrodisias is one of the rare archaeological sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

3 – Miletus Archaeological Site attracted 66,873 visitors. Miletus offers tourists a unique experience with its impressive structures dating back to ancient Greece.

4 – Adnan Menderes Democracy Museum hosted 38,931 visitors in 2024.

5 – Priene: 37,079 visitors

6 – Aydin Museum: 29,802 visitors.

7 – Yoruk Ali Efe House Museum: 17,574 visitors

8 – Nysa: 14,003 visitors

9 – Magnesia: 10,760 visitors

10 – Alabanda: 4,630 visitors

The fact that the Apollo was number one would no doubt have raised a wry smile from Glenn Maffia, the Voices Newspaper’s long-time columnis, who was also one of the Temple’s greatest admirers abd modern-day chroniclers.

Glenn passed away on January 10, 2024.

He did more than anyone to press home the attractions and intrigues of the Apollo Temple. He even wrote a book “Faint Whispers of the Oracle” about the Temple.