Patara was the most important Lycian port and one of its oldest cities. According to legend, Patara was founded by Pataros, son of the nymph Lykia and god Apollo. Herodotus mentioned Patara in the 5th century BC, noting it as the famous Oracle of Apollo which "spoke" only in winter, while the summer oracle was in Delphi.
In 333 BC, the city surrendered to Alexander the Great without resistance to avoid destruction. During the Roman period, Patara became a highly significant city and served as the capital of the Lycian-Pamphylian provinces. In the 1st century BC, the city was burned and destroyed by Brutus, who had assassinated Caesar in Rome. In the 2nd century BC, Patara became the judicial seat of Roman governors and an important port city. From here, the Roman fleet maintained contacts with its eastern provinces and conducted ship maintenance and repairs.
Patara was the birthplace of St. Nicholas, bishop of Myra (Demre), who became the basis for Santa Claus.
Key monuments to see in ancient Patara include the Triumphal Arch or Monumental Gate at the entrance to the city, the ancient theatre, the necropolis with Lycian and Roman tombs, and Hadrian's granaries. Gelemiş Bay offers sailors a unique anchorage enriched with historical treasures.