Hastings' Dictionary of the Bible (1898)
PAT'ARA, a seaport-town on the south-west shore of Lycia, near the left bank of Xanthus, and opposite Rhodes. Acts 21:1-2. It was about 7 miles east of the mouth of the river, had a convenient harbor, and was visited by ships of all nations. The gospel was early preached there, and it became the seat of a bishopric and was represented in the Council of Nice. The city was given up to the worship of Apollo, its founder, Patarus, being reputed to be
a son of that god. Patara is now in ruins, but retains its ancient name. The remains prove it to have been a city of considerable importance. Among them are a theatre, some massive walls and arches, a gate of the city with three arches nearly perfect, and numerous sarcophagi. Near the theatre is a deep circular pit, and a square pillar rising above it, which Lewin thinks was the seat of the oracle of Patareus Apollo. The port is completely filled
with sand, and is a malarious swamp; all communication with the sea is cut off by a sand-beach, and the sand is also gradually encroaching upon the ruins.