Lystra Reveals Ancient Heritage

Lystra Ancient City, located within the borders of Gökyurt village in Konya’s Meram district, was an important Roman colony during the Middle Ages. 

Known for its strategic location and cultural significance, Lystra played a key role in early Christian history, as it was visited by Saint Paul during his missionary journeys. 

Excavations in the area have revealed valuable archaeological findings, shedding light on the city’s rich past and its influence in the region. 

Today, Lystra stands as an important historical and cultural site, attracting both history enthusiasts and Christian pilgrims.

Situated on the historic Royal Road, the Lystra ancient settlement offers some of the closest archaeological insights into the region’s early habitation, indicating that the city was first settled in the 3rd century BC. 

Built as an ancient rock-carved settlement, research shows that Lystra experienced significant population growth during the Hellenistic and Roman periods, and expanded rapidly during the Christian era. It is believed that the rock-carved structures of Lystra were constructed by carving into the natural volcanic hills of the area.