Patara is an ancient city that was one of the six largest and most prosperous cities in the Roman Empire, was in the province of Pamphylia. Patara was the second state the importance of the city of Ephesus. Due to strategic location in ancient Patara was a well-developed trade. In addition, she was one of the principal seaports in Lycia, especially after its conquest by Alexander the Great. Also, the city was known that there was the seat of the Roman Governor. Patara was the capital of the province and it was called the chosen city. The number of people inhabiting in the city amounted to about 20 thousand. During the Christian era the town was known for the missionary work of the Apostle Peter. In 260-270 years, was born in Patara Holy Saint Nicholas. Patara was visited by the Emperor Vespasian and Emperor Hadrian.

In the Greek myths tells that to Patara repeatedly visited by the God Apollo. On a hill outside the city was found a statue of Apollo, which is proof that in former times there existed a temple dedicated to him. But at the moment it is not found yet.

When started the decline of the Roman Empire, the town suffered from the attacks of marauders and pirates. And in the seventh century began the war with the Arabs. They had built a large fleet, which became dominant in the Mediterranean countries. Soon Lycia was destroyed, and Patara acquired the status of an ordinary village. Its population decreased, despite the fact that the port of Patara functioned for many years. The city has had malaria epidemics due to water logging area, and eventually it was absorbed by the Sands.

At the moment the main part of the city is under the sand, but thanks to archeological finds historians restored to its former splendor of the city. During the excavations there were discovered the ruins of a colonnade, which graced the streets, the remains of the Byzantine Basilica, the arch of Mattia Modestus, which has remained virtually untouched by time. Also found a ruined Corinthian temple and the city Council building.