As the city of Sardis grew, the high plateau became too small for the growing population and trade. So, a new lower city was built, mostly on the west side of the original city. The old city became the acropolis (a fortified area), which made Sardis a double city. This is why it was called Sardeis (the plural form of Sardis).
The city was located in a well-watered plain near the Pactolus River, which helped the city grow. Sardis became famous for its wealth and was known as the center of the carpet industry. It was also where coins were first minted Guided Tour Istanbul.
The Wealthy King Croesus
The last ruler of Sardis was King Croesus, who was considered the richest man in the world. Everything he touched seemed to turn into gold. Croesus was captured by Cyrus the Great and lost his kingdom. Sardis was ruled by many powerful empires over time, including the Persians, Alexander the Great, Antiochus the Great, and finally, the Romans.
Destruction of Sardis
Sardis was destroyed by an earthquake during the reign of Emperor Tiberius. Today, the ruins of the city can still be visited.
Temples in Sardis
There are still ruins of two famous temples in Sardis: the Temple of Cybele and the Temple of Apollo. These two temples were built together, making it one of the few double temples in the world Thyatira A City Built for Defense.
Cybele and Apollo
Cybele was a goddess who was known as Diana in Ephesus. But in Sardis, she was seen as a nature goddess. Cybele was the goddess of the moon, while her brother, Apollo, was the god of the sun. The worship of these gods was very corrupt, similar to the worship of Diana in Ephesus.
Excavations and Discoveries in Sardis
Today, excavations are taking place in Sardis. Workers are rebuilding the gymnasium and the synagogue, and they have uncovered parts of the Roman road. When I visited, I was excited to see the Roman road because I knew that the apostle Paul had walked on it.
