Soli-Pompeiopolis Ancient City

Soli-Pompeiopolis Ancient City is located approximately 11 kilometers from the city center of Mersin in Türkiye, within the boundaries of the Mezitli district. The ancient city is situated on the Mediterranean coast and has held strategic importance throughout history due to its role in maritime trade and cultural exchange.

^{Soli-Pompeiopolis Ancient City(}Anadolu Agency⁾

The earliest settlement of Soli Ancient City dates back to the 7th century BCE and was established by colonists from Rhodes. During the Hellenistic period, the city developed as a port town and was later rebuilt under Roman rule, adopting the name Pompeiopolis. This name change occurred after the Roman consul Pompeius cleared the region of pirates in 67 BCE and subsequently sent settlers to the city.

The main structures that have survived to the present day include the colonnaded street, harbor remains, a theater, and bath complexes. The colonnaded street, approximately 200 meters in length, exhibits characteristic features of Roman architecture and provides insight into the city’s urban planning. Parts of the Corinthian-style columns lining the street still stand. The theater is located close to the sea, but only its foundation remains today. Roman bath ruins are found in the northwestern section of the city. The ancient harbor structure is also observable.

^{Soli-Pompeiopolis Ancient City(}Anadolu Agency⁾

The first scientific excavations at the ancient city began in 1999, conducted in collaboration between the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and various universities. These excavations uncovered a large portion of the colonnaded street and documented mosaic floors and architectural fragments.

Soli-Pompeiopolis has been registered as a first-degree archaeological site and is protected by the Mezitli Municipality and relevant institutions. Environmental improvements and promotional activities are ongoing to assess the city’s tourism potential.

Soli-Pompeiopolis Ancient City is one of the important ancient port cities along the eastern Mediterranean coast and contains significant examples of Roman-era architecture and urban planning. It holds a prominent place in the region’s cultural heritage due to its historical past and archaeological remains.