ANTALYA
Surrounded by amazing scenery of sharp
contrasts, Antalya, Turkey's
principal resort, is an attractive city with
shady palm-lined boulevards and a prize-winning
marina. In the picturesque old quarter of
Kaleici, narrow, winding streets and old wooden
houses abut the ancient city walls.

Hadrian's Gate, Antalya
Antalya has been continuously inhabited since
its founding in 159 BC by Attalos II, a king of
Pergamum, who named the city Attaleia
after himself. The Romans, Byzantines and
Seljuks successively occupied it before Ottoman
rule. The elegant, fluted minaret of the YivIi
Minareli Mosque in the center of the city, built
by the Seljuk sultan Alaeddin Keykubat in the
13th century, has become Antalya's
symbol. The Karatay Medrese (theological
college) in the Kaleici, district, from the same
period, exemplifies the best of Seljuk stone
carving. The two most important Ottoman mosques
in the city are the 16th-century Murat Pasa
Mosque, remarkable for its tile decoration, and
the l8th-century Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Mosque.
Nearby the marina, the attractive late
19th-century Iskele Mosque is built of cut stone
and set on four pillars over a natural spring.
The Hidirlik Kulesi (tower) was probably
constructed as a lighthouse in the second
century. The Kesik Minaret Mosque, which was
previously a church, attests to the city's long
history in its succession of Roman, Byzantine,
Seljuk and Ottoman renovations.

Shopping
When
Emperor Hadrian visited Phaselis in Antalya
province in 130 AD a beautifully decorated
three-arched gate with Corinthian columns was
built into the city walls in his honor. It was
the only entrance through the city walls. The
two towers flanking the gate, as well as other
sections of the walls, are still standing near
the marina. The clock tower in Kalekapisi Square
was also part of the old city's fortifications.

Yivli Minare (Fluted Minaret), Antalya
In
the Ataturk and Karaalioglu Parks, the colorful
exotic flowers and the shimmering water in the
bay with the mountains behind demonstrate why
Antalya has become such a popular resort. At
Aqua Park, on the eastern coast, every kind of
water sport is available, including exciting
water slides.
The award-winning Antalya Kaleici Marina and
Leisure Center is considered one of the
loveliest marinas in Turkey with its many
souvenir shops, friendly cafes and restaurants
as well as yacht moorings and services. Sail in
the morning and enjoy the relaxed conveniance of
the marina in the afternoon. The old city walls,
lit up at night, lend an atmosphere of serenity
and timelessness.

Icon in the Antalya Archeology Museum
The
Archeological Museum, with artifacts from
the Paleolithic Age to Ottoman times, offers a
glimpse of the area's rich history. Two-colored
ceramics dated at 5400 - 8500 B.C. are worth
seeing. The Ataturk Museum displays
objects used by the founder of the Turkish
Republic. (Both open weekdays except Monday).

Aquapark, Antalya
The
Antalya Altin Portakal (Golden Orange)
Film and Art Festival, held in the autumn,
attracts many participants and visitors. The
ancient theater in Aspendos makes an impressive
setting for some of the festival's plays and
concerts. Antalya also hosts annual jewelry
fairs.

Kaleici Yacht Harbor, Antalya
A
Culture, Exhibition and Congress Center
dominated by an impressive glass pyramid was
opened in 1996 in the Konyaalti Quarter.
What
could be more appealing than dreamlike
landscapes, a rich variety of flora, grand
mountains, and the magnificent colors of the
sea? Add to that the lively resort life with the
quiet of ancient ruins and you have a perfect
vacation. From Antalya there are many
possibilities for day-trips:

Karain Cave, Antalya
At
the Upper Duden Waterfalls, 14 km
northeast of Antalya, you can walk behind the
rushing cascade for a thrilling experience. On
the way to Lara Beach, the Lower Duden
Waterfalls plunge straight into the sea. The
nearby rest area offers an excellent view of the
falls and the vista is even more spectacular
from the sea. Kursunlu Waterfalls and Nilufer
Lake, both 18 km from Antalya, are two more
places of superb natural beauty.
The
sandy Lara Beach lies about 12 km to the
east. Closer to Antalya, but to the west, the
long, pebbled Konyaalti Beach offers
a view of the breathtaking mountain range. A
little farther along, the Bey Daglari Olympos
National Park and Topcam Beach
provide more splendid vistas. Sican is a lovely
nature island. There are camping grounds at the
north end of the park, should you decide to
linger amid the natural beauty. For a panoramic
view of the area, drive to the holiday complex
and revolving restaurant on top of Tunektepe
Hill.

Termessos Amphitheater, Antalya
Saklikent, 50 km from Antalya, is an ideal
winter sports resort on the northern slopes of
Bakirli Mountain at an altitude of 1,750
to 1,900 m. In March and April you can ski in
the morning, eat a delicious lunch of fresh fish
at Antalya's marina and sun bathe, swim or
windsurf in the afternoon. You can see wildlife
- deer and mountain goats - that are under a
conservation program in Duzler Park,
north of Antalya. On the way, you can stop at
the astonishing 115-m deep Guver Canyon.
On
the eastern side of Can Mountain, 30 km
from Antalya, the Karain Cave, which
dates from the Paleolithic Age, is the site of
the oldest settlement in Turkey. A single
entrance, lit by the morning sun, opens onto
three large interconnecting chambers. Although
the little museum at the entrance displays some
of the finds, most of the artifacts are housed
in various museums throughout Turkey. Some of
them date to 160,000 B.C.

Kursunlu Waterfall, Antalya
The
ruins of the city of Termessos are
perched on a 1,050-m high plateau on the west
face of Gulluk Mountain (Solymos) found
in Mt. Gulluk National Park northwest of
Antalya. A wild and splendid landscape surrounds
the monumental traces of this city. A nature and
wildlife museum is found at the park entrance.
NORTH OF ANTALYA
Renowned for its unspoiled landscape, flora, and
fauna, the Goller Bolgesi (Lake District)
lies in a mountainous area 150 km north of
Antalya. The city of Burdur is known
throughout Turkey for its beautiful lakes, as
well as for its carpets and kilims. The
Bakircilar Carsisi is a shopping area where you
can find fine hand crafted copper. This city
also preserves excellent examples of Ottoman
regional architecture, in particular the Tasoda,
Kocaoda (also known as Celikbas). and Misirlilar
Konaks, or mansions, dating back to the 17th
century. Both the interior and exterior
decorations reveal much of the Ottoman
aesthetic. (Open everyday except Monday). The
Burdur Archeological Museum houses some very
important artifacts from around the region.
(Open everyday except Monday).

Isparta
Burdur Lake, with nice beaches for
swimming, is a superb location for water sports.
A climb to the top of Susamlik Hill gives
you a panoramic view over the city and lake. The
Insuyu Cave, 10 km south on the road to
Antalya, is 597 m long, with nine distinct
pools, and chambers filled with stalactites and
stalagmites. Kremna (Camlik) is 60 km
from Burdur and 15 km from Bucak near Camlik
village in Bucak County. It wasan important
Pisidian city and contains Roman and Byzantine
era ruins. The Incirhan Caravanserai is
located seven km west of Bucak in lncirdere
(Derekoy). It was built in the 13th century by
the Seljuk ruler Giyasettin Keykubat.
A
hundred m southwest of Burdur, in Golhisar
(Cibyra), are ruins, mostly from Roman
times, of an important ancient north Lycian city
with a stadium, lower and upper agora, theater,
necropolis and large aqueducts. Also in the
region, trapped in the mountains 1,050 m above
sea level, is beautiful Lake Saida, a
delightful location for relaxation and cooling
off on the sandy beaches or in the lake side
cafes, hotels and restaurants. Also in the
region is Hacilar Hoyuk (Hacilar mound)
containing ceramics dating from 5400 to 8500
B.C. excavated in 1950.

Egridir Lake, Isparta
The
ancient site of Sagalassos is 33 km east
of Burdur and seven km south of the town of
Aglasun. It was the Pisidian capital city
and has ruins from Roman times that included a
memorial entrance gate, colonnaded street, lower
and upper agoras, temple and magnificent
theater.
High
in the Taurus Mountains is Isparta, a
city of lakes and lovely coastal areas overgrown
in the spring and summer with an exuberance of
wild flowers. In the city you should stop at the
Ulu Mosque built in 1417 by the Seljuks. The
Bedesten, or covered bazaar, dates from 1561.
Firdevs Pasa Mosque, also called Mimar Sinan
Mosque was also built in 1561 by the great
Ottoman architect Sinan. Be sure to see the
14th-century Isparta Castle. Rose gardens that
produce rose oil for the cosmetic industry
surround the city and fill it with their sweet
scent. Other souvenirs include a thickly piled
Isparta carpet. In the nearby hills, the
districts of Kirazlidere and Sidre are
popular with visitors who want to relax and
enjoy the view. South of Isparta, Golcuk
Lake, encircled by aromatic pine
forests, rests at an impressive 1,405 m above
sea level.

Aglasun (Sagalassos) Burdur
Egirdir, at the southern end of Lake
Egirdir, is set in idyllic natural
surroundings. Among the man-made monuments,
Egirdir Castle built by the Lydian King Croesus
shows additions and renovations made by Romans,
Byzantines and Seljuks. The Seljuk Kemerli
Minare has felt the changes of the modern world
today it stands in the middle of a road. At
lakeside restaurants you can sample white bass,
the local speciality. A boardwalk connects the
shore to Egirdir Island, where weavers
erect their looms and work outside their houses.
Up in the hills, on the western side of the
lake, guest houses in Barla provide a
wonderful opportunity for relaxation. Kovada
National Park, 30 km south of Lake Egirdir,
surrounds Kovada Lake, a pristine and cool
mountain getaway.

Pisidian Antioch, Yalvac, Isparta
Northeast of Isparta, Yalvac, stands near
the ancient city of Pisidian Antioch. The
actual time it was founded under the Seleucids
is unknown, but it was probably a colony of King
Antiochus (281-261 B.C.) of Magnesia on the
Meander. Antioch then passed under the control
of the Galatian kingdom (39-36 B.C.) and then
became "Colonia Caesarea" of the Roman Empire in
25 B.C. and remained so for about 200 years.
This is attested to by numerous Latin
inscriptions still extant. Under Rome, the city
was made to resemble the capital on its seven
hills. At the end of the third century the city
was a metropolis of Pisidia and continued to be
under the Byzantines, who increased the number
of sacred sites.
This area was visited by Paul and Barnabas
around 46 AD. Among the ruins be sure to see St.
Paul's Basilica, the aqueducts, the Temple to
Augustus, the theater and public baths as you
walk along the city's marble streets, all of
which was destroyed by Arabs in 713. In the
middle of the 13th century most of the
inhabitants left the ancient site and founded
nearby Yalvac. The Archeological Museum in
Yalvac itself displays several important
regional artifacts. Tourists will find not only
articles of leather clothing but many other
interesting traditional souvenirs made of animal
hide. East of Yalvac. atop Karakuyu Hill,
is the sanctuary to the moon god (called Men),
and the view from it is breathtaking. Giant
cedar trees grow in Kizildag National Park,
south of Yalvac amid one of Turkey's most
splendid landscapes.

Incirhan, Burdur
WEST OF ANTALYA
The
mountains of the Toros (Taurus) Range
rise up immediately behind the coast. The entire
length from Konyaalti Beach to the
Kirlangic Peninsula is national preserve,
the Bey Daglari (Olympos) National Park.
The history of this ancient Lycian Peninsula can
be traced back to the Neolithic Age to the
settlements at Beldibi.

Kemer Marina, Antalya
The
42 km of road from Antalya to Kemer pass through
spectacular mountain scenery. This resort town
has been carefully designed to blend in with the
surrounding scenery and offers a lovely
environment for a wonderful holiday. The
fully-equipped Kemer marina allows yachtsmen to
enjoy the unspoiled bays and beaches south of
the town. Shoppers will delight in the wonderful
range of high quality souvenirs for sale. A
beach promenade north of the marina has steps
down from its cafes and shops to the beach.
Kerner Beach is a Blue Flag beach. (The term
"Blue Flag" coined by the European Union
signifies especially clean beaches.). In the
Yoruk (Nomad) Theme Park you can watch
traditional crafts people at work. The adjoining
bay is a charming spot with many sports and
daily entertainment facilities discreetly hidden
among the pines. April is the month for the
colorful Kemer Carnival. Also in the spring are
the yacht races between Kerner and Girne in the
Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, and between
other locations.
Kiziltepe, Goynuk (Blue Flag) and Beldibi
(Blue Flag) north of Kemer and Camyuva and
Tekirova (Blue Flag) to the south, are tourist
centers that offer various activities. The
holiday villages are all designed to blend into
the forest that surrounds them. At the foot of
2575 m high Mt. Tahtali (Olympos), 15 km
south of Kemer, the three harbors of Phaselis
were once a major commercial center. The ruins
of aqueducts, agoras, baths, a theater,
Hadrian's Gate and an acropolis reveal the
city's historical importance. From the south
harbor, look up to Mt. Tahtali for a spectacular
view. The sheltered sandy beaches make a superb
playground, and the waters are calm and safe for
swimmers.

Yacht
The
ancient city of Olympos is situated on the
southern side of Mt. Tahtali Oleander and laurel
bushes shade the Olympos Valley, which can be
approached by land or sea. The light playing on
the quiet pools of water enhance the mosaics in
the bathgate possibly built during the reign of
Marcus Aurelius (161-180 AD), part of a bridge,
and a Roman theater also remain from antiquity.
The outer walls and towers around the bay date
from the Middle Ages.
North of Olympos up from Cirali Beach is
Yanartas (at a height of 300 m) where
Greek mythology tells us the Lycian hero
Bellerophon mounted his winged horse Pegasus and
slew the fire-breathing Chimaera.
Gas seeps from the earth and burns brightly at
night at this site. The Byzantines also
considered this a religious area.
South of Olympos, tranquil waters and sandy
beaches line the Bay of Cavus where you
can water ski on calm waters, discover the
colorful marine life or explore the incredible
sea caves on the northern shore.

Phaselis, Antalya
Finike, an entry port west of Olympos, is
surrounded by citrus trees and gardens. A sandy
beach stretches to the east, and to the west are
rocky bays and coves.
Limyra, an ancient Lycian city, is 10 km
inland from Finike, via Turuncova. The
fourth-century B.C. Pericles mausoleum,
decorated with caryatids, is a magnificent
example of ancient art. The city walls,
necropolis, and Roman theater are also of
interest.

Tourists
Farther along this road is the Lycian city of
Arikanda. It was inhabited at least by 500
B.C. and was destroyed several times by fire or
earthquake. It was called Akalanda by the
Byzantines. Set high on the mountain overlooking
one of Turkey's most beautiful valleys, the
extensive ruins include an agora, a theater with
seven sections, a stadium, bouleuterion, water
system, gymnasium, baths and scattered
sarcophagi. The baths are still in good
condition.
The ancient city of Myra, now called Demre or
Kale, is 25 km west of Finike. It was inhabited
as early as 500 B.C. Many splendidly carved rock
tombs dating from the 4th century B.C. overlook
the magnificent Roman theater. St. Nicholas, who
was born in Patara, was the bishop of Myra
during the 4th century, and died there in 326.
Every year in December the St. Nicholas
Commemoration Ceremony attracts many tourists
who spend their Christmas holidays on the sunny
Mediterranean coast of ancient Lycia.

Kalkan, Antalya
Dalyanagzi, the ancient harbor of Andriace,
west of Demre, has a good beach for swimming and
sunbathing.
Kekova, an island an hour from Dalyanagzi by
sea, gives its name to a whole ensemble of
picturesque islands, numerous bays and ancient
cities. These bays provide natural harbors in
all seasons, and yachtsmen particularly enjoy
exploring the unspoiled landscape. Along the
northern shore of Kekova Island at Apollonia,
earthquakes have disturbed the land causing
some of the ancient houses to sink under the
clear water, thus creating a sunken city.
Kalekoy Castle (Simena) offers a birds-eye
view of the bays, inlets, islands and colorful
yachts sailing peacefully over the glassy water.
Continuing west out of Kekova, you come to Kas,
a lovely spot surrounded on three sides by
mountains. The friendly local fishermen are
happy to run a water taxi service to take you to
a favorite bay, cove or beach along the coast.
The swimming and diving are excellent in the
clear cool water around Kas, which was founded
in the 4th century B.C. as Antiphellos. Now only
the Lycian rock tombs, sarcophagi and a theater
are left. But the charm of the town remains, and
it is a pleasure to wander through the streets,
stopping to examine souvenir shops that offer
Turkish handicrafts, leather goods, copper and
silver items, cotton clothing and the inevitable
handmade carpet.

Harpy and Semerdam Memorials, Xanthos -
Antalya
After shopping stroll, along the flower-lined
Akdeniz Promenade or relax under the shade of a
palm tree. The mountains that surround the town
provide their share of activities and sights,
while the bars and restaurants offer plenty of
nightlife. You can walk through forested hills
to visit remote villages and ancient ruins. The
energetic may want to attempt the highest peak
in the area, Mt. Kizlar Sivrisi (3,086
m), or the second highest, Mt. Akdag
(3,030 m).
Along the scenic Kalkan road, Kaputas has
a beautiful beach, at one end of which is the
Turquoise Grotto. A little distance to the west
is Kalkan, a lovely small
hilltop town that overlooks a tiny bay. Its
quaint, traditional, white-washed houses,
shuttered windows and balconies with brilliant
flowers that cascade to the streets below, make
it the ultimate in a peaceful holiday town.
Narrow winding streets lined with souvenir shops
lead down to the charming marina. Every morning
boats are busy taking tourists to one of the
nearby beaches or small bays. As the sun sets,
it is Kalkan tradition to meet on the roof
terraces for a drink before dinner and enjoy the
comings and goings of the yachts, the business
of the marina and the panoramic view.

Belek - Antalya
Once a principal harbor of ancient Lycia,
Patara is now reached by following a winding
mountain road before descending to the site.
According to Greek mythology Apollo was born
here. More concrete history reveals that this
town was the birthplace of St. Nicholas. The
ruins are, of course, numerous and interesting.
A second century theater has been partially
excavated, and there is a gate with three arches
built in 100 . But Patara is also a place for
beach lovers. Its 22 km of pure white sand
stretches as far as the eye can see, making it a
natural choice for all types of beach sports.
The remoteness of this undiscovered comer makes
it feel like a private paradise.
EAST OF ANTALYA
Wide, fertile plains parallel the
endless sandy beaches east of
Antalya until you come to
Alanya. Abundant modern
tourist facilities and
well-preserved historic sites give
you a number of options for a day's
activities.
Perge (18 km from Antalya)
was an important city of ancient
Parnphylia, originally settled
by the Hittites around 1500 BC. St.
Paul visited this city on his first
missionary journey. The theater
stage has finely carved marble
reliefs, and other carvings from
around the city are displayed in the
stadium. Amateur archeologists will
want to see the handsome city gate
flanked by two lofty towers, a long
colonnaded road once paved with
mosaics and lined with shops, a
large agora, public baths and a
gymnasium.

Aspendos Ampitheater,
Antalya
Swimmers and sun-bathers alike enjoy
Belek, a modem luxurious holiday
center and golfer's paradise, 40 km
from Antalya. The National Golf Club
located in Belek features a wide
variety of water sports, as well as
a championship 18-hole golf course
and 9-hole academy course. Visitors
may sample some of Turkey's finest
cuisine and enjoy open air discos.
A photogenic Seljuk bridge crosses
the Kopru River from the road
to Aspendos. The road continues past
the Aspendos Jewel Center to the
Aspendos Theatre, the best preserved
theater of antiquity, with seating
for 15,000. Still used today, the
theater's galleries, stage
decorations and acoustics all
testify to the architect's skill.
Nearby, stand the remains of a
basilica, an agora and one of the
largest aqueducts in Anatolia.

Temple of Apollo, Side -
Antalya
And if you have ever wondered how
gold dust becomes a fine piece of
art or how precious stones are
engraved, be sure to visit the
Aspendos Jewelry Center, where
jewelry making can be observed at
every stage in the large workshop.
Northeast of Antalya, at the turn
off for Tapgil and Beskonak,
is the scenic route that leads to
the 14-km-long
Koprulu Canyon National Park.
The twisting road winds over
mountain streams and passes through
virgin cedar forest. It is often a
slow drive because the view at every
turn is more beautiful than the
last. The park, 92 km from Antalya,
is a valley of wild beauty rich in
flora and fauna.
Fish restaurants dot the rest areas. The Roman
Oluk Bridge, which spans the canyon, and
the Bugrum Bridge over the Kocadere
stream, are engineering feats of antiquity.
From this park you can take two excursions - to
the ancient city of Selge or to the
Dedegol Mountains. Dedegol the highest peak
in this mountain range rises to 2,992 m. An
important city of ancient Pisidia, Altinkaya
(Selge), northwest of Koprulu Canyon
National Park, is reached by a winding mountain
road. The city walls, tower, cisterns, temple to
Zeus, agora, stadium, theater carved into
boulders, gymnasium and necropolis still remain
from this commercial city that stood at an
elevation of 950 m. Historians verify that Selge
had direct trade with Antalya, which brought it
prosperity. Selge was ruled by Lydians and
others.

Koprulu Canyon, Antalya
Although the Manavgat Waterfalls are not
high, milky white, foaming water rushes
powerfully over the rocks. Next to the
waterfalls, shady tea gardens and restaurants
make the falls a pleasant, cool resting spot,
especially welcome after a day of sighseeing.
You can take a delightful boat trip up the
Manavgat River to explore this lovely area
further.

Alanya Castle, Antalya
Side, one of the best-known
classical sites in Turkey, was an ancient harbor
whose name meant pomegranate. Now a pretty
resort town, its ancient ruins, two sandy
beaches, numerous shops and extensive tourist
accommodation attract throngs of visitors. There
are numerous cafes and restaurants with a view
of the sea, and the shops that line the narrow
streets sell typical Turkish handicrafts
including leather goods and Turkey's famous
beautiful gold jewelry. The magnificent theater
of the ancient city, built on colonnaded arches,
is the largest in the whole area. Other
monuments include the agora, the Temple of
Apollo, which is situated near the sea, a
fountain and necropolis. The extensive Roman
baths, now a museum, house one of Turkey's
finest archeological collections.

Manavgat Waterfall, Antalya
Tucked in pine forests east of Side, the resorts
of Sorgun, Titreyen Gol (Blue Flag) and
Kizilagac are popular for their sandy
beaches and sparkling sea. The atmosphere is
relaxed, the accommodation plentiful and the
activities endless.
West
of Side, the holiday centers of Kumkoy,
Colakli and Kamelya also offer sun and sea,
in close proximity to ancient sites. At
Seleucia of Parnphlyia (Bucaksihlar), 15 km
northeast of Side, are the remains (in good
condition) of Roman baths, temples, churches, a
mausoleum, theatre and agora. One of the most
interesting and well known caves in Turkey is
located in Altinbesik Cave National Park
situated 12 m southeast of Aydinkent (lbradi)
and 55 m north of Manavgat. Lakes and
interesting rock formations within the cave area
as well as travertines and streams make this
area especially fascinating. Altinbesik Cave is
situated on the western slopes of the Manavgat
River Valley and can be reached via the village
of Urunlu, which is an authentic village
and a must-see when traveling through this area.

Alarahan, Alanya
The
Alarahan caravanserai was built by Seljuk
sultan Alaeddin Keykubat in 1230 on the banks of
the Alara River. On the top of a nearby
hill the Alara Fortress commands a view of the
whole area.
The large and popular resort center of Alanya
lies at one end of a rocky promontory, which
juts out into the Mediterranean between two long
sandy beaches. A fortress repaired by the
Seljuks in 1231, one of the most magnificent
sights on the coast, crowns the headland. Nearly
150 towers punctuate the walls of the well-
preserved, doublewalled citadel. Within the
outer walls are ruins of mosques, a caravanserai
and covered bazaar, and within the inner walls
are a ruined cistern and a Byzantine church.
Although Alanya's history dates back to the
Romans, it rose to prominence under the Seljuks,
when in 1220, Alaeddin Keykubat made it his
winter residence and naval base. The surviving
buildings reflect the importance of the city in
Seljuk times. Besides the impressive citadel,
tourists should explore the unique dockyards and
the octagonal Kizil Kule (Red Tower).

Ulas Beach, Antalya
Alanya is a beautiful holiday center of modern
hotels and motels, as well as numerous seafood
restaurants, cafes and bars. The cafes that ring
the harbor have become popular gathering places
for tourists. There are also three Blue Flag
beaches. From the town's lovely park, the road
runs along the coast to the harbor, lined with
countless boutiques that tempt tourists with
handicrafts, leather, clothes, jewelry, handbags
and the amusing painted gourds that are a symbol
of the area. In August, when Alanya hosts a
colorful International Folklore Festival the
atmosphere is charged with vitality.
If
you enjoy exploring you should visit the
Damlatas Cave to see the eerie misshapen
rock formations. Nearby is the Archeology and
Ethnography Museum (Open weekdays except
Monday). A boat can take you to three sea
grottoes: Fosforlu Magara with its
phosphorescent rocks; the Kizlar Magarasi,
where pirates imprisoned their female
captives and the Asiklar Magarasi.

Dim Cayi
When
the intense sun overpowers you, take a day trip
to the Dim Cayi Valley, 15 km east of
Alanya, where you can relax in the shade of this
scenic valley and listen to the stream rushing
by. Thirty km east of Alanya is Aytap, the
historical harbor city of lotape and a great
excursion site with Roman ruins, secluded
beaches and bays.
If
you travel east from Alanya towards Gazipasa
you will discover and, no doubt, linger on
the exceptional beaches. The attractive Gazipasa
County was awarded its name by Mustafa Kemal
Ataturk Near Gazipasa is Yalandunya Cave
with many natural water pools. Also discover the
Korsanlar Ask Magarasi (Pirates' Love Cave).
The royal graves at Doganma on Mt. Adanda
and Mt. Guney are also worth seeing. Near the
ancient city of Solinos there is a comfortable
vacation locale. Be sure not to miss the
picturesque Turkish houses at Hasdere.

Iotape Ancient Harbor, Gazipasa -
Antalya
Avsallar (Incekum), about 25 km from Alanya to
the west, is a resort center with fine sandy
beaches.
EASTERN MEDITERRANEAN COAST
Mark Antony gave the lovely Cilician shores
between Alanya and the Syrian Border to
Cleopatra as a wedding present. Also associated
with the region's past is St. Paul, a native of
Tarsus. Today the area is known for its
fertile soil which produces abundant crops, and
for the hospitality of its residents.

Kizkalesi, Mersin
Surrounded by densely cultivated market gardens,
Mersin, the provincial center of Icel,
lies midway on the eastern Mediterranean
coast of Turkey. Its shady palm-lined avenues,
city park and modern hotels create a pleasant
ambience from which to visit the nearby historic
sites and numerous beaches. A rapidly developing
city and the largest free-trade zone port on the
Turkish Mediterranean, Mersin has a regular car
ferry service to Gazimagosa (Famagusta) in the
Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. In the fish
market, sample the daily catch in one of the
several inexpensive restaurants. Other local
delicacies include cezire, a local confection
made of carrot rolled around a walnut center,
and biberli ekmek, a small pizza topped with a
spicy meatless sauce. Despite its very modern
appearance, Mersin (ancient Zephyrium) occupies
the site of an extremely ancient city. It was
called Kizuwatna by the Hittites. At the
Yurnuktepe tumulus, three m west of town,
continuing excavations have unearthed several
successive settlements dating back to 6000 B.C.
to the Neolithic Age. It has also been learned
from a letter from the Hittite queen, Puduhepa
(1282-1275 B.C.), to the Ugarite king in Syria,
Niqmepa, that the residents of Ura (Hyria) at
the head of the Goksu (Calycadnos) River in Icel
were engaged in sea trade with the Ugarites.
There are remains of various civilizations
throughout Icel, but the majority of remains are
from the Roman, Byzantine, and Turkish eras.

Tourist
FROM MERSIN TO ANAMUR
In
Demircili (the ancient Imbriogon),
north of Silifke on the way to Uzuncaburc, there
are well-preserved memorial tombs of the early
Roman period.

Anamur Castle, Mersin
The
drive up the mountain road to the magnificent
ancient site of Diocaesarea (Uzuncaburc)
at 1200 m is lined with large tombs. The remains
of the impressive Temple of Zeus Olbius from the
Hellenistic period, the Temple of Tyche, the god
of luck, a monumental arch, a theater built
between 161-180 AD, a Byzantine church, and a
tower are outstanding. Four m to the east are
the ruins of Olba (Ura) where the Roman
aqueducts, theater, and fountain make a quick
tour well worthwhile.
Continuing along the coastal road south from
Silifke you come to the 5th century Meryemlik
(Ayatekla), a Roman necropolis with the tomb
and church of St. Thecla, the first female
martyr / saint.

Natives
Tasucu, with good accommodation for
tourists, is a resort town with sandy beaches
and a harbor. Regular sea bus and ferry service
connects the town with Girne in the Turkish
Republic of Northern Cyprus.
Ovacik, 44 km west of Tasucu, is a quiet spot
well-known for its fisherman's wharf and beach.
The Peninsula (ancient Cavaliere) of
Ovacik is one of the natural highlights of
Turkey, an ideal area for diving. If this sport
interests you, visit Kosrelik Bay
(Afrodisias) and Kosrelik Island. Eighteen
km southeast of Ovacik off the coast of Kos
relik Bay, you will find Roman ruins and
beautiful mosaics. Off Aydincik, to the
west of Ovacik, the surrounding sailing waters
are clearly marked, ensuring crusing safety
along this breathtaking stretch of coast. The
shore road that clings to the pine-clad mountain
slopes, which plunge steeply down to the sea,
offers spectacular views of cliffs, coves and
the brilliant turquoise waters of the
Mediterranean.
Another 36 km to the west of Aydincik,
Bozyazi is a holiday center with clean and
commodious camping sites along its wide beaches.

Uzuncaburc, Silifke, Mesin
The
fine, well-preserved Anamur Castle, set
between two curving sandy beaches, commands a
splendid view of the coastline. Originally built
by the Crusaders in the Middle Ages, it later
served as an Ottoman stronghold.
Thirteen km from Bozyazi and a few km inland,
the town of Anamur is nestled in the
mountains with banana plantations surrounding
it. Just west of town on a beautiful beach are
the ruins of ancient Anamorium with
double ramparts, theater, odeon, bath and
necropolis. Situated on terraces above the sea,
it is perfect for a climb to the top which
overlooks one of the cleanest and most pristine
seasides in Turkey.
TARSUS TO ANTAKYA
East of Mersin, on the edge of the fertile
Cukurova Plain, is Tarsus, the
birthplace of St. Paul. Of ancient origin,
the city was invaded and destroyed on
several occasions. In the past, it had
served as a capital city. Archeological
remains to be seen are some bronze weapons,
the Cleopatra Gate through which Mark Antony
and Cleopatra passed when they came to
Tarsus to meet, a Hittite temple, an ancient
church, the Ottoman Ulu Cami, and the Kubat
Pasa theological school. Little streams,
waterfalls and shady trees at the Tarsus
Falls on the outskirts of town are an
idyllic place to spend an afternoon. The
Karaburcak Park is perfumed by its
groves of eucalyptus trees.

Karatepe - Aslantas, Adana
Set in the heart of the Cukurova
(Cilician) Plain, Turkey's fourth
largest city, Adana is at the center
of a rich agricultural region and a thriving
textile industry. The 310-m long Taskopru
(Stone Bridge) built by Hadrian and repaired
by Justinian, spans the Seyhan River
which bisects the town; only 14 of the
bridge's original 21 arches still stand. Of
interest in the city are the Ulu Mosque
built in 1509, the Eski Mosque, the Hasan
Aga Mosque, the 19th-century clock tower and
the old covered bazaar. To be included in a
tour of the city are three museums: the
Archeological Museum, which displays locally
excavated Hittite and Roman remains; the
charming Ethnography Museum; and the Ataturk
Culture Museum.
After a day of sightseeing you can sample
Adana kebab, a sensational spicy kebab of
ground meat. Local beverages include
shalgam, a drink made from dark turnips,
and shira, a type of grape juice.

Cleopatra Gate, Tarsus
North of the city, at the Seyhan Dam and
Lake, are shady walks, quaint tea
gardens and restaurants set in a cool place
to escape the heat. At sunset, look back
toward the city to the peaceful, winding
ruby river, lined with twinkling lights.
The nearest beaches with accommodations are
at Yumurtalik, where an ancient
harbor castle dominates the picturesque
fisherman's wharf. And at Karatas, fishermen
will enjoy the scene and the catch at
Camlik Park.
Off the road from Adana to Iskenderun, near
Yakapinar, lies Misis, a city which
derived its wealth from its position on the
Silk Road. There are several Roman ruins at
the site, including a beautiful
fourth-century mosaic pavement depicting
Noah's Ark and the animals. Further along
the road are the impressive ruins of the
Yilanlikale (Sahmeran castle) atop a
rocky peak that dominates the Ceyhan
River. South of Yilanlikale, in the
Sirkeli region, a somewhat weathered Hittite
relief marks Muvattalish's stop here on his
way to Egypt. North of Ceyhan lies the
village of Dilekkaya, (the ancient
Anavarza), where you can view the ruins
of a Roman-Byzantine city and an impressive
castle. The small museum at the site has two
particularly fine mosaics from Roman baths.
Osmaniye, inland from the head of the
Gulf of Iskenderun, is the turn-off for two
more ancient sites. The road to Karatepe
takes you to the ancient Roman city of
Castabala, where a colonnaded street,
theater, baths and a fortress on the hill
evoke a bygone era. At the Karatepe National
Park, (a neo-Hittite site), the remains of
the summer residence of King Asitawada,
tablets bearing Hittite and Phoenician
inscriptions which were important in
deciphering the Hittite language and an
open-air museum with fine bas-reliefs reveal
the importance and astonishing aesthetic of
this ancient civilization. There are two
statues of bulls, and one with a human body
topped by a lion's head.

Beach in Arsuz, Iskenderun
This region was much fought over during the
Crusades and the impressive fortress at
Toprakkale was, for a time held by the
European armies. Further back in history,
Alexander the Great defeated Darius III and
the Persian army in 333 BC at the Plain
of Issos (Dortyol). Today this area is
covered with large citrus groves which
supply the country with oranges, tangerines
and lemons.

Myra Tombs
At Yakacik (Payas), off the
highway that outlines the coast of the Gulf
of Iskenderun, the splendid 16th-century
Sokollu Mehmet Pasa Complex includes mosque,
bath, bazaar, caravanserai and medrese.
Other monuments include the Cinkulesi Tower
of Jinns) and a castle.
Iskenderun, formerly
Alexandretta, was founded by Alexander the
Great after his victory over the Persians on
the Plain of Issos. Today it is a busy
commercial center and port with a fine
harbor. Excellent hotels, restaurants and
cafes line the sea front surrounded by parks
and palm trees. The culinary speciality of
Iskenderun is sumptuous prawns. Epicureans
should also try both kunefe, a hot dessert
of sweetened shredded wheat filled with
melted cheese, and humus, an appetizer of
pureed chickpeas, garlic and paprika. Good
souvenirs include hand carved wooden tables
and chairs and other objects of wood.
On the coast south of Iskenderun, the resort
town of Ulucinar (Arsuz) boasts good
beaches, hotels, guest houses and
restaurants.

Incirhan
On the way to Antakya, off the main road, is
the mountain resort of Sogukoluk
where you can retreat from the blazing
summer sun. After you cross the Belen
Pass, stop at Bagras Castle,
which was held at various times by the
Byzantines, Mamluks and Crusaders. The
castle was originally built to control the
route to Arabia. There is a chapel in the
castle.
Antakya, the biblical city of
Antioch, lies on the Asi River (Orontes)
on a fertile plain surrounded by grand
mountains. Once the capital of the Seleucid
kings, it was notorious for its wealth and
luxury. In Roman times, the city continued
to thrive with commerce and culture. It
featured prominently in early Christianity,
as the place where the name "Christian" was
first coined.
The Antakya Museum houses one of the richest
collections of Roman mosaics in the world
(Open weekdays except Monday). These
fantastic mosaics in stone were uncovered
mostly at excavations in Antakya and nearby
Daphne. Outside the town is the Grotto of
Peter the apostle. In 1983, the church was
declared a sacred site by the Vatican. Other
places of interest include a bustling bazaar
and the Mosque of Habib Neccar.

King Tombs, Antalya
South of the grotto, the iron Gate was one
of the actual entrances of biblical Antioch.
Strolling through the old part of town, you
cannot help recalling that Paul, Peter,
Barnahas, and others walked these streets,
for little has changed since that time. The
Castle of Antioch, set high above the city,
offers a magnificent view over the city and
the plain.
South of Antakya is Harbiye, the
ancient Daphane where, according to
mythology, Apollo tried to make the wood
nymph, Daphne, his lover. To escape him, she
changed into a laurel tree. The city was a
luxurious suburb in Roman times. Covered
with orchards, gardens, laurel trees, and
waterfalls, this is an excellent place for a
good meal. In October, delicious Harbiye
dates are in season. Wonderful laurel
scented soap can also be purchased here.
Samandag, 25 km from
Antakya, is a resort town with a pristine
beach. Seleucia Peria (Cevlik), north
of town, was founded around 300 B.C. and by
the time Paul and Barnabas started on their
first missionary journey from here it was a
busy port. The most interesting monument to
see is the Tunnel of Titus, built to divert
rain water. Even by today's standards it is
a tremendous engineering achievement. You
should also drive to the Temple of Zeus at
Kapisuyu village for a spectacular
panorama of the ancient harbor, sandy beach
and fertile plain.
Two roads lead from Antakya to Syria: the
one to the east and Aleppo passes through
the frontier town of Reyhanli; the
one to the south goes through Yayladag
towards Lazkiye, Tripoli and Beirut.