Post by ann on Sept 20, 2008 0:33:13 GMT 2
FETHIYE
Fethiye with its cultural wealth, natural beauties and geography, is among the important tourism centres of Turkey. It is famous for its works of art belong to Persians, Lycians, Carians and Romans. This charming county is in a bay within Fethiye Gulf where both large and small islands are scattered. The rear of the bay is surrounded by pine forests.
History
The ancient name of Fethiye, which was a coastal city at the borders of Lycia-Caria, is Telmessos. There is not definite information about the foundation of this Ancient city. According to the first written records, it has come into existence in the 5th century B.C. Telmessos, separate from Lycia, survived as an independent city for a long time. The city experienced the rule of Persia, Alexander the Great, Rome, Pergamum Kingdom, Byzantium, Menteseogullari Principality and Ottoman State respectively.
Climate
Mediterranean climate, which is hot and dry during summers and warm and rainy during winters, is dominant in the region. Temperature, which is approximately 30 degrees during summer months, is generally over 10 degrees during winter. Sea water temperature never decreases under 16 degrees during each season.
KUSADASI
This seaside resort town has grown immensely in the last 30 years, and is especially popular with package holiday-makers from Europe. From a population of 6000 in the 1970s, it is now closer to 50,000, although a high proportion of this are part of the tourist industry and here only for the summer. Many cruising ships travelling around the Aegean Islands stop here, especially because of its close proximity (20km) to Selcuk. Kusadasi is a good base to explore this and other ancient cities like Priene and Didyma.
Although there is little of historical interest in Kusadasi itself, the town is popular predominantly because of its many hotels, restaurants, souvenir and carpet shops, and lively nightlife. The Kale district has some old traditional houses and narrow streets, and gives some indication of what the town used to be like. The most famous beach is Kadinlar Plaji, 2.5km south of the town, dominated by huge hotels and can get very crowded in summer. There are several small beaches further south, and closer to town is Yilanci Burnu, the peninsular.
BODRUM
Homer's description of Bodrum as 'The land of eternal blue' and the words of another resident of Bodrum, Cevat Sakir, who said 'The heavenly bliss of life in Bodrum is better than any eternal bliss that may await us' were not without foundation in reality. Throughout history Bodrum, known as Halicarnassos in ancient times, has always been fought over and people have been unwilling to share its beauty with others.
Built on a peninsula formed by the meeting of the eastern and western harbors, Bodrum, with its narrow streets winding down to the sea, is famous for its castle, its world-renowned yachts, its shipyards and the dazzling white houses and tombs lining the shores of its two harbors.
Bodrum has all the facilities to meet the expectations of tourists from all income levels ranging from the rich yacht owners to the penny counting tourists who just want a reasonable room to make his vacation last all summer.
History
Bodrum has been the cradle of several civilizations. Down through the ages it has suffered from the countless invasions of those coming from the Aegean islands and has been important to all those powers wishing to dominate the Aegean.Halicarnassos(Bodrum) was an important city in the Caria civilization which was located between its much more powerful neighbors Lykia and Ionia. The region boasts such greats as the historian Heredotus, history's first woman admiral Artemisia I, and the just-as-skilled Artemisia II as well as artists like Leachares and Shepas.
Bodrum experienced the dominance of various civilizations throughout the history such as Persians,Mecedonians,Roman Empire and Byzantines. Byzantines lost their power in Anatolian region after they were defeated by the Seljuk Ruler Alpaslan at Malazgirt in 1071. Rhodian knights had constructed the present Bodrum castle and established theirrule over the region. Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent on his military expedition to Rhodes conquered Bodrum together with Rhodes and added them to the territory of Ottoman Empire.
Climate
Summers are hot and dry while winters are mild and rainy.
ANTALYA
Because of the archaeological and natural riches of the area, Antalya is also known as the Turkish Riviera. The sun, sea, nature and history combine to form a very popular resort, highlighted by some of the cleanest beaches in the Mediterranean. The 630km shoreline of the province is liberally scattered with ancient cities, harbours, memorial tombs and beaches, secluded coves and lush forests, many of which are easily accessible from the city.
With its palm-lined boulevard, internationally-acclaimed marina, and old castle with traditional architecture, all set amidst a modern city, Antalya is a major tourist centre in Turkey. In addition to the wide selection of hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and shops, the city also plays host to a number of sporting events throughout the year, like International Beach Volleyball, triathlon, golf tournaments, archery, tennis and canoeing competitions. The Cultural Centre, which opened in 1995, hosts cultural and art events in the fields of music, theatre, and creative arts.
The main area of interest in the city is central old quarter within the Roman walls, known as Kaleici, and there are many good museums.
Districts: Akseki, Alanya, Elmali, Finike, Gazipasa, Gundogmus, Ibradi, Kale, Kas, Kemer, Korkutali, Kumluca, Manavgat and Serik are all towns in the province of Antalya.
KEMER
Kemer is an important tourism center with green and blue met qualified, resort, restaurant and beach facilities, yacht ports and historical cities.
Where to Visit
One of the leading attractivenesses of Kemer is its natural beauty. Sea, forest and mountains are joining at one point. For example, reaching sea waves till pine trees and usage of pine trees as shady spots at beaches is very attractive. Clearance of the sea, green of forest is another beauty in Kemer.
Presence of Faselis, Olympos like antic regions near to it is another attractiveness. It is possible to reach Faselis and Olympos from Kemer by maritime lines and road. Recently organized safari tours to Sogut Cumasi, Altinyaka Dere Village like high places can also be mentioned among regional attractiveness.
Caverns are also other attractiveness within the region. One of these caverns, Beldibi cavern is 27 km south west of Antalya, and at shore. Ruins of prehistoric ages are found. Another valuble to see cavern is Molla Deligi cavern, and present on eastern slope of Mount Tahtali, which rises at west of Kemer. You can only reach to this cavern by foot from Asagi Kuzeydere or Tekirova villages on Kemer - Kumluca highway. You should walk 3.5 - 4 hours from both villages.
ANCIENT CITIES
PHASELIS
It is at 58th km of Antalya - Finike road. It is also possible to reach Phaselis city by maritime lines, which is 15 km away from Kemer.
It is thought that one of the eastern coastal cities of Lycia, Phaselis is one of the commercial cities of Hellenistic Age of VIth century B. C. It becomes a bishop center during Romans. Thick walls of eastern port of Phasellis, composed of three ports, are still in good condition. Western port, whose front and western parts are remained under sands is appropriate for having a swim.
Most parts of the ruins, which are on ground in Phaselis are remained from Roman period. These ruins are; port, castle walls, Zeus Temple, King Antonius Caravella road, also twenty lined theater ruins. Peninsula's throat part composing street is marvelous. It begins from south port and reaches to city gates. It is thought that it is also used as a stadium from time to time due to width and shortness of this street. Because history writes that two important athletism competitions are performed within Phaselis.
There are two temples near to Agora. One of them is constructed for the sake of 'Athena Polias', which is a highly important goddess for Phaselis. Other one is for the sake of 'Heista' and 'Hermes'. There were bronze made spear of Homer's mythological hero, Acchileus within Athena among these temples. Building ruins, a church as well as houses of bishops among these ruins can be faced at sides of the street. Aqueducts, which are covering the water needs of the city, are constructed with Roman style and still in very good condition.
There is also a museum, in which some ancient pieces of art excavated in Phaselis. Also here is drawing attention as an ideal promenade and beach place, composed of a shallow bay, fine sands and a forest, and mountain, sea besides historical beauties.
KAS
Kas was one of the most important cities of Lycia, and is now a small resort with great historical interest. Its quaint town centre has a rocky waterfront, with good beaches nearby. There are watersports available in the area, like canoeing,jet-skiing, diving and paragliding, plus cavern diving, which uses technical equipment to explore the deep and dark caverns. For those who love travelling on the water, the Mavi Yolculuk (Blue Voyage) tours, and other excursions on boats, can be madeto the surrounding islands.
Kalkan (Kalamaki)
A well-maintained and quiet harbour town, Kalkan is 25km west of Kas. It is an attractive town, once a fishing village occupied by the Ottoman Greeks. It has become increasingly popular since the 1980s, with a huge holiday village covering thesouthern hillside. The small town centre which overlooks the bay is filled with quaint, traditional white-washed houses, shuttered windows and balconies with brilliantly-coloured flowers. The marina caters for the requirements of visiting yachts, aswell as several restaurants and shops in the main centre.Yacht Marina Tel: (0242) 844 3204, fax: 836 1030.
OLYMPOS
It is between Kemer and Adrasan. After passing Phaselis, a plate on Antalya - Kumluca road, shows Olympos road. Cirali is an ancient coastal village beside Olympos. The city, which is found on 2nd century B. C. is emptied on 6th century. Famous Bellerophontres - Chimera war is made here. An hour of walking on a tight and uneven slope coming from a river bed after Cirali will bring you to Chimera's unique natural ambient. Chimera is known by the natives as 'Yanartas' due to continuously burning natural gas, which is coming from mountain.
ALANYA
With its vast beaches, historic sites, the innumerable fish restaurants of its modern hotel and motels and its cafes and bars, Alanya, is an outstanding holiday getaway. The first thing that greets the visitor is the 13th century Seljuk Castle,which sits like a crown atop of Alanya Peninsula. Besides the impressive castle, there is the shipyard and the Red Tower (Kizil Kule) with monumental beauty. All along the road which runs beside the port are latenight cafes and bars and boutiques selling handicrafts, leather clothing, jewelry, handbags and local gourds painted with extraordinary colors. If you like to explore caves, then you must see Damlatas Cave.
Near the cave is the Ethnography Museum. By boat you can reach three other caves: the Phosphorous Cave with its phosphoric rocks, Girls Cave (Kizlar Cave), where pirates held their women prisoners, and Lovers Cave (Asiklar Cave). The cool shade of Dim Brook Valley, 15 km east of Alanya, is an ideal place to get away and relax. The sea all around Alanya is excellent for swimming. Alanya is a paradise of sun, sea and sand.
History
Based on skeletal evidence found between the villages of Bademagaci and Oba northeast of the city, Alanya is believed to have been inhabited in pre-historic times.Alanya was sometimes considered part of Cilicia and sometimes part of Pamphilia. It was later ruled by the Hittites and Romans respectively. In a bad state of repair after a number of invasions and wars, the city was rebuilt by the Romans. In the Byzantine era, Alanya was called Kolonoros, which means the 'beautiful mountain'.
Climate
Because of its climate, plants from all over the world can be found in Alanya. Some of the most common are oranges, bananas, vegetables of all kinds, tropical fruits from South Africa and India such as papaya, guava, avocado and a variety of dates and coffees. Alanya has a typical Mediterranean climate with wet humid winters and hot dry summers. The average temperature year-round is 19ºC. The water averages 21ºC.
MANAVGAT - SIDE
Where to Visit
Manavgat Waterfall
Waterfall, which are 3 km. north of Manavgat province, have the same name with province. It composes a valuable to see panorama with its high flow on a wide area although it falls from an amazing height. Just near to the waterfalls, you can picnic in the nature and can eat fresh fish in surrounding restaurants.
MUSEUMS
Side Museum
Hamam of the antic agora, remaining from 5th and 6th century A. D., against the agora, which belongs to Roman Period, is restored on 1960 / 61, and turned into a museum.
Most of the pieces of art exhibited within the Museum, are the findings revealed during the excavations performed between 1947 and 1967 in Side antic city by Prof. Dr. Arif Mufid Mansel. From Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantium Period; inscriptions, gun relieves, Statues, torsos, tombs, portraits, ostotexes, amphorae, altars, tomb stalls, column heads and column pedestals, which are the copies of Greek originals, built in Roman Period, are being exhibited.
ANTIQUE CITIES
Side
Side, which is 7 km. away from Manavgat, is an ancient settlement center. Side, which is mentioned by historians as founded on 1405 A. D., had met with the reigns of Lydian, Persian, Alexander The Great's, Antiogonous's, Ptolemaioses, respectively beginning from the second half of VIth century A. D. After 215 A. D., The city, which is improved under supervision of Syrian Kingdom, and turned into a science and cultural center, had left to Bergama Kingdom on A. D. with Apameia peace, then had protected its independence with Eastern Pamphilya region, and reached to a great richness and prosperity with a huge commercial fleet.
It entered under Byzantium reign after Roman reign after 78 B. C. Side, which was a Bishop center during Vth and VIth centuries, had lived its greatest times during these years.
Main gate of the city, which has a unique labor, is between two towers. There are two main streets in Side province. These streets are samples of columned streets of Ancient Age. After passing city gate, flat stones adorned area is the starting point of this street. There are columned porticos beside both sides of these streets, and shops behind them.
There is a 'Nymphaeum', biggest historical fountain of Anatolia, against city gate, outside ramparts. A wide pool place is below this foundation. You can reach to a monumental structure, passing through a street after theater. This building with dimensions of 100x100 m., is an agora. Agora, which is the Bazaar area of the city, is surrounded by porticos and there are shops at three sides of it. There is a Gymnasium, surrounded by porticos and composed of three halls, on the street, south side of the Agora. In the main street at North - south direction, there is an arched structure, constructed during Roman Period. Importance of Side city's theater, in connection with architecture, is its construction on arched places instead of a slope of a hill like other roman theaters.
Theater, which is composed of three divisions, cavea, orchestra and scene, is the biggest and most monumental one among Pamphylia theaters, and has a capacity of 20.000 spectators.
There are wide cemeteries outside of Side's ramparts, and most important one of these, Western Necropolis, is 1,5 km. away. There are also temples and aqueducts in Side. Most important ones of the temples are Athena, Apollon and Men temples. Water of side is brought from Dumanli source, within Oymapinar Dam Lake, approximately 25 km. away. This water transportation system is composed of ten aqueducts, of which some of them are two layered. Biggest one is near to Oymapinar and has 40 specs.
A huge Roman Hamam is turned into a museum, and hosts for most beautiful archeological pieces of art collection of the region. The city, which is reigned by Seljukians during XIIIth century, Hamitogullari and Tekeliogullari during XIVth century, and finally Ottoman Empire during XVth century, was not a settlement during this period.
Although most parts of the city ramparts, which are holding structure and characteristics of Roman and Byzantium periods, has been demolished today, nearly all of the ramparts at land side had remained.
DALAMAN
Dalaman is now rapidly becoming an investment area for many Europeans purchasing property for investment in Turkey, this seems due to many factors including the town being announced a main touristic area from now on, plans for new marina's and a golf course are underway.
Dalaman town itself, has many shops, resturants, bars and tea gardens and is growing quickly due to the investment in the area. Dalaman infact has its own huge naturel beach, although not commercial 'yet' it is still pleasant and hosts lots of wildlife.
The town is ideally situated for lots of resort area's but perfect if you prefer a quieter place to base yourself. There is also a tunnel underway to connect the town of Gocek and Dalaman, reducing the journey to only 5 or 10 minutes drive.
GOCEK
Set at the north-west end of the Gulf of Fethiye, Gocek is blessed with magnificent scenery. Backed by majestic mountains and substantial pine forests it looks out over the Twelve Islands, which provide shelter for Gocek's almost circular bay that has made the village such a perfect, natural harbor. Lured by such perfection, the yachting community has long made Gocek a favorite, and it is also a popular stop for gullet cruises.
Perhaps this explains Gocek's impressive range of facilities for a place that remains so blissfully unspoiled: there are only a handful of small hotels and pensions, yet all along the wide, landscaped promenade that fringes the quayside, there are plenty of eateries, from simple cafes to excellent restaurants specializing in delicious fresh fish. In the back streets and around the old village square by the mosque, there is a surprising array of interesting craft shops.
From the harbor you can take boat trips around the Twelve Islands and a boat is also the natural choice of transport to reach Gocek's beaches, the nearest of which lies just a little further around the bay. An enjoyable, 20-minute trip - which is provided daily free of charge for Simply Turkey guests - takes you to an immensely picturesque cove on Gocek Island, where you can feel like Robinson Crusoe for the day!
Gocek which recently became the meeting point of yachtsmen and lovers of the sea, has attained a justified fame with its natural position. The coves where colorful yachts ranging from the latest models to small vessels meet, can be visited in all seasons. In addition to being an ideal place from the standpoint of wind, sea and air temperature, it is only 22 km from the Dalaman Airport with international standards. Also the yacht marina built in recent years and improved rapidly has placed Gocek into a privileged state. Any plane that you board, for example, in Istanbul, Ankara and even some places abroad would relieve you from the problems of world and take to the blue-green paradise of Gocek.
Besides all of these, Gocek is, at the furthest north end of Fethiye bay, and is in a location very close to both the islands and to the coves each more beautiful than the other. You can meet all of your requirements here before starting out for a blue voyage and very easily come back within few days to replenish your supplies.
Gocek which was a small village until very recently has now became a municipality within a very short period of time with the yacht marina. Due to its location on the Fethiye highway, in Gocek where land transportation is also made, you can obtain all the provisions you need to world standards as well as being able to find all kinds of domestic and foreign newspapers, books, and other publications. It is possible to enter into the port of Gocek, regardless of day or night, without any danger at all.
DIDIM (DIDYMA)
Located 70 km (40miles) south of Kusadasi, Didim is a summer resort famous for it's long beaches and nearby historical sites such as Miletos, Priene and the Temple of Apollon. Altinkum (Meaning Golden Sand in Turkish) near Didim which was once a tiny fishing village has turned into a small touristic town with many hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars. Altinkum is the most famous bar and beach of Didim which has a coastal length of 50 km (30 miles).
THE HISTORY OF DIDYMA
On the southwest Aegean coast of Anatolia, Didyma the sacred place of ancient Anatolia, is only 4 km away from the sea and 15 kms. to the south of Akkoy, a small village of the city of Aydin. Didyma was a sacred place starting from the 8th century B.C. There are two important temples; Apollon and Artemis temples.
The Apollon temple was the more prominent one of these two. Before Hellenistic age in Anatolia, the temple of Apollon was a small archaic temple, far earlier than the foundation of the remarkable sanctuary of worship devoted to god Apollon.
During archaic and Hellenistic periods, the temple of Apollon became a prime sacred site for Anatolians. The whole structure was destroyed by Persians in 494 B.C. and the cult of Apollon was taken to Persia.
Didyma was reconstructed and the cult statue was brought back from Ekbatana under the leadership of Diadochen Seleukos I. He began to build a new temple in place of the old one in 300 B.C. The whole structure was completed in more than 300 years. During the Byzantine age, the temple was used as a fortress and later as a church. An earthquake, in the 15th century, damaged the temple and the surrounding structures. Since then it is left as a ruin.
Fethiye with its cultural wealth, natural beauties and geography, is among the important tourism centres of Turkey. It is famous for its works of art belong to Persians, Lycians, Carians and Romans. This charming county is in a bay within Fethiye Gulf where both large and small islands are scattered. The rear of the bay is surrounded by pine forests.
History
The ancient name of Fethiye, which was a coastal city at the borders of Lycia-Caria, is Telmessos. There is not definite information about the foundation of this Ancient city. According to the first written records, it has come into existence in the 5th century B.C. Telmessos, separate from Lycia, survived as an independent city for a long time. The city experienced the rule of Persia, Alexander the Great, Rome, Pergamum Kingdom, Byzantium, Menteseogullari Principality and Ottoman State respectively.
Climate
Mediterranean climate, which is hot and dry during summers and warm and rainy during winters, is dominant in the region. Temperature, which is approximately 30 degrees during summer months, is generally over 10 degrees during winter. Sea water temperature never decreases under 16 degrees during each season.
KUSADASI
This seaside resort town has grown immensely in the last 30 years, and is especially popular with package holiday-makers from Europe. From a population of 6000 in the 1970s, it is now closer to 50,000, although a high proportion of this are part of the tourist industry and here only for the summer. Many cruising ships travelling around the Aegean Islands stop here, especially because of its close proximity (20km) to Selcuk. Kusadasi is a good base to explore this and other ancient cities like Priene and Didyma.
Although there is little of historical interest in Kusadasi itself, the town is popular predominantly because of its many hotels, restaurants, souvenir and carpet shops, and lively nightlife. The Kale district has some old traditional houses and narrow streets, and gives some indication of what the town used to be like. The most famous beach is Kadinlar Plaji, 2.5km south of the town, dominated by huge hotels and can get very crowded in summer. There are several small beaches further south, and closer to town is Yilanci Burnu, the peninsular.
BODRUM
Homer's description of Bodrum as 'The land of eternal blue' and the words of another resident of Bodrum, Cevat Sakir, who said 'The heavenly bliss of life in Bodrum is better than any eternal bliss that may await us' were not without foundation in reality. Throughout history Bodrum, known as Halicarnassos in ancient times, has always been fought over and people have been unwilling to share its beauty with others.
Built on a peninsula formed by the meeting of the eastern and western harbors, Bodrum, with its narrow streets winding down to the sea, is famous for its castle, its world-renowned yachts, its shipyards and the dazzling white houses and tombs lining the shores of its two harbors.
Bodrum has all the facilities to meet the expectations of tourists from all income levels ranging from the rich yacht owners to the penny counting tourists who just want a reasonable room to make his vacation last all summer.
History
Bodrum has been the cradle of several civilizations. Down through the ages it has suffered from the countless invasions of those coming from the Aegean islands and has been important to all those powers wishing to dominate the Aegean.Halicarnassos(Bodrum) was an important city in the Caria civilization which was located between its much more powerful neighbors Lykia and Ionia. The region boasts such greats as the historian Heredotus, history's first woman admiral Artemisia I, and the just-as-skilled Artemisia II as well as artists like Leachares and Shepas.
Bodrum experienced the dominance of various civilizations throughout the history such as Persians,Mecedonians,Roman Empire and Byzantines. Byzantines lost their power in Anatolian region after they were defeated by the Seljuk Ruler Alpaslan at Malazgirt in 1071. Rhodian knights had constructed the present Bodrum castle and established theirrule over the region. Sultan Suleyman the Magnificent on his military expedition to Rhodes conquered Bodrum together with Rhodes and added them to the territory of Ottoman Empire.
Climate
Summers are hot and dry while winters are mild and rainy.
ANTALYA
Because of the archaeological and natural riches of the area, Antalya is also known as the Turkish Riviera. The sun, sea, nature and history combine to form a very popular resort, highlighted by some of the cleanest beaches in the Mediterranean. The 630km shoreline of the province is liberally scattered with ancient cities, harbours, memorial tombs and beaches, secluded coves and lush forests, many of which are easily accessible from the city.
With its palm-lined boulevard, internationally-acclaimed marina, and old castle with traditional architecture, all set amidst a modern city, Antalya is a major tourist centre in Turkey. In addition to the wide selection of hotels, restaurants, bars, nightclubs and shops, the city also plays host to a number of sporting events throughout the year, like International Beach Volleyball, triathlon, golf tournaments, archery, tennis and canoeing competitions. The Cultural Centre, which opened in 1995, hosts cultural and art events in the fields of music, theatre, and creative arts.
The main area of interest in the city is central old quarter within the Roman walls, known as Kaleici, and there are many good museums.
Districts: Akseki, Alanya, Elmali, Finike, Gazipasa, Gundogmus, Ibradi, Kale, Kas, Kemer, Korkutali, Kumluca, Manavgat and Serik are all towns in the province of Antalya.
KEMER
Kemer is an important tourism center with green and blue met qualified, resort, restaurant and beach facilities, yacht ports and historical cities.
Where to Visit
One of the leading attractivenesses of Kemer is its natural beauty. Sea, forest and mountains are joining at one point. For example, reaching sea waves till pine trees and usage of pine trees as shady spots at beaches is very attractive. Clearance of the sea, green of forest is another beauty in Kemer.
Presence of Faselis, Olympos like antic regions near to it is another attractiveness. It is possible to reach Faselis and Olympos from Kemer by maritime lines and road. Recently organized safari tours to Sogut Cumasi, Altinyaka Dere Village like high places can also be mentioned among regional attractiveness.
Caverns are also other attractiveness within the region. One of these caverns, Beldibi cavern is 27 km south west of Antalya, and at shore. Ruins of prehistoric ages are found. Another valuble to see cavern is Molla Deligi cavern, and present on eastern slope of Mount Tahtali, which rises at west of Kemer. You can only reach to this cavern by foot from Asagi Kuzeydere or Tekirova villages on Kemer - Kumluca highway. You should walk 3.5 - 4 hours from both villages.
ANCIENT CITIES
PHASELIS
It is at 58th km of Antalya - Finike road. It is also possible to reach Phaselis city by maritime lines, which is 15 km away from Kemer.
It is thought that one of the eastern coastal cities of Lycia, Phaselis is one of the commercial cities of Hellenistic Age of VIth century B. C. It becomes a bishop center during Romans. Thick walls of eastern port of Phasellis, composed of three ports, are still in good condition. Western port, whose front and western parts are remained under sands is appropriate for having a swim.
Most parts of the ruins, which are on ground in Phaselis are remained from Roman period. These ruins are; port, castle walls, Zeus Temple, King Antonius Caravella road, also twenty lined theater ruins. Peninsula's throat part composing street is marvelous. It begins from south port and reaches to city gates. It is thought that it is also used as a stadium from time to time due to width and shortness of this street. Because history writes that two important athletism competitions are performed within Phaselis.
There are two temples near to Agora. One of them is constructed for the sake of 'Athena Polias', which is a highly important goddess for Phaselis. Other one is for the sake of 'Heista' and 'Hermes'. There were bronze made spear of Homer's mythological hero, Acchileus within Athena among these temples. Building ruins, a church as well as houses of bishops among these ruins can be faced at sides of the street. Aqueducts, which are covering the water needs of the city, are constructed with Roman style and still in very good condition.
There is also a museum, in which some ancient pieces of art excavated in Phaselis. Also here is drawing attention as an ideal promenade and beach place, composed of a shallow bay, fine sands and a forest, and mountain, sea besides historical beauties.
KAS
Kas was one of the most important cities of Lycia, and is now a small resort with great historical interest. Its quaint town centre has a rocky waterfront, with good beaches nearby. There are watersports available in the area, like canoeing,jet-skiing, diving and paragliding, plus cavern diving, which uses technical equipment to explore the deep and dark caverns. For those who love travelling on the water, the Mavi Yolculuk (Blue Voyage) tours, and other excursions on boats, can be madeto the surrounding islands.
Kalkan (Kalamaki)
A well-maintained and quiet harbour town, Kalkan is 25km west of Kas. It is an attractive town, once a fishing village occupied by the Ottoman Greeks. It has become increasingly popular since the 1980s, with a huge holiday village covering thesouthern hillside. The small town centre which overlooks the bay is filled with quaint, traditional white-washed houses, shuttered windows and balconies with brilliantly-coloured flowers. The marina caters for the requirements of visiting yachts, aswell as several restaurants and shops in the main centre.Yacht Marina Tel: (0242) 844 3204, fax: 836 1030.
OLYMPOS
It is between Kemer and Adrasan. After passing Phaselis, a plate on Antalya - Kumluca road, shows Olympos road. Cirali is an ancient coastal village beside Olympos. The city, which is found on 2nd century B. C. is emptied on 6th century. Famous Bellerophontres - Chimera war is made here. An hour of walking on a tight and uneven slope coming from a river bed after Cirali will bring you to Chimera's unique natural ambient. Chimera is known by the natives as 'Yanartas' due to continuously burning natural gas, which is coming from mountain.
ALANYA
With its vast beaches, historic sites, the innumerable fish restaurants of its modern hotel and motels and its cafes and bars, Alanya, is an outstanding holiday getaway. The first thing that greets the visitor is the 13th century Seljuk Castle,which sits like a crown atop of Alanya Peninsula. Besides the impressive castle, there is the shipyard and the Red Tower (Kizil Kule) with monumental beauty. All along the road which runs beside the port are latenight cafes and bars and boutiques selling handicrafts, leather clothing, jewelry, handbags and local gourds painted with extraordinary colors. If you like to explore caves, then you must see Damlatas Cave.
Near the cave is the Ethnography Museum. By boat you can reach three other caves: the Phosphorous Cave with its phosphoric rocks, Girls Cave (Kizlar Cave), where pirates held their women prisoners, and Lovers Cave (Asiklar Cave). The cool shade of Dim Brook Valley, 15 km east of Alanya, is an ideal place to get away and relax. The sea all around Alanya is excellent for swimming. Alanya is a paradise of sun, sea and sand.
History
Based on skeletal evidence found between the villages of Bademagaci and Oba northeast of the city, Alanya is believed to have been inhabited in pre-historic times.Alanya was sometimes considered part of Cilicia and sometimes part of Pamphilia. It was later ruled by the Hittites and Romans respectively. In a bad state of repair after a number of invasions and wars, the city was rebuilt by the Romans. In the Byzantine era, Alanya was called Kolonoros, which means the 'beautiful mountain'.
Climate
Because of its climate, plants from all over the world can be found in Alanya. Some of the most common are oranges, bananas, vegetables of all kinds, tropical fruits from South Africa and India such as papaya, guava, avocado and a variety of dates and coffees. Alanya has a typical Mediterranean climate with wet humid winters and hot dry summers. The average temperature year-round is 19ºC. The water averages 21ºC.
MANAVGAT - SIDE
Where to Visit
Manavgat Waterfall
Waterfall, which are 3 km. north of Manavgat province, have the same name with province. It composes a valuable to see panorama with its high flow on a wide area although it falls from an amazing height. Just near to the waterfalls, you can picnic in the nature and can eat fresh fish in surrounding restaurants.
MUSEUMS
Side Museum
Hamam of the antic agora, remaining from 5th and 6th century A. D., against the agora, which belongs to Roman Period, is restored on 1960 / 61, and turned into a museum.
Most of the pieces of art exhibited within the Museum, are the findings revealed during the excavations performed between 1947 and 1967 in Side antic city by Prof. Dr. Arif Mufid Mansel. From Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantium Period; inscriptions, gun relieves, Statues, torsos, tombs, portraits, ostotexes, amphorae, altars, tomb stalls, column heads and column pedestals, which are the copies of Greek originals, built in Roman Period, are being exhibited.
ANTIQUE CITIES
Side
Side, which is 7 km. away from Manavgat, is an ancient settlement center. Side, which is mentioned by historians as founded on 1405 A. D., had met with the reigns of Lydian, Persian, Alexander The Great's, Antiogonous's, Ptolemaioses, respectively beginning from the second half of VIth century A. D. After 215 A. D., The city, which is improved under supervision of Syrian Kingdom, and turned into a science and cultural center, had left to Bergama Kingdom on A. D. with Apameia peace, then had protected its independence with Eastern Pamphilya region, and reached to a great richness and prosperity with a huge commercial fleet.
It entered under Byzantium reign after Roman reign after 78 B. C. Side, which was a Bishop center during Vth and VIth centuries, had lived its greatest times during these years.
Main gate of the city, which has a unique labor, is between two towers. There are two main streets in Side province. These streets are samples of columned streets of Ancient Age. After passing city gate, flat stones adorned area is the starting point of this street. There are columned porticos beside both sides of these streets, and shops behind them.
There is a 'Nymphaeum', biggest historical fountain of Anatolia, against city gate, outside ramparts. A wide pool place is below this foundation. You can reach to a monumental structure, passing through a street after theater. This building with dimensions of 100x100 m., is an agora. Agora, which is the Bazaar area of the city, is surrounded by porticos and there are shops at three sides of it. There is a Gymnasium, surrounded by porticos and composed of three halls, on the street, south side of the Agora. In the main street at North - south direction, there is an arched structure, constructed during Roman Period. Importance of Side city's theater, in connection with architecture, is its construction on arched places instead of a slope of a hill like other roman theaters.
Theater, which is composed of three divisions, cavea, orchestra and scene, is the biggest and most monumental one among Pamphylia theaters, and has a capacity of 20.000 spectators.
There are wide cemeteries outside of Side's ramparts, and most important one of these, Western Necropolis, is 1,5 km. away. There are also temples and aqueducts in Side. Most important ones of the temples are Athena, Apollon and Men temples. Water of side is brought from Dumanli source, within Oymapinar Dam Lake, approximately 25 km. away. This water transportation system is composed of ten aqueducts, of which some of them are two layered. Biggest one is near to Oymapinar and has 40 specs.
A huge Roman Hamam is turned into a museum, and hosts for most beautiful archeological pieces of art collection of the region. The city, which is reigned by Seljukians during XIIIth century, Hamitogullari and Tekeliogullari during XIVth century, and finally Ottoman Empire during XVth century, was not a settlement during this period.
Although most parts of the city ramparts, which are holding structure and characteristics of Roman and Byzantium periods, has been demolished today, nearly all of the ramparts at land side had remained.
DALAMAN
Dalaman is now rapidly becoming an investment area for many Europeans purchasing property for investment in Turkey, this seems due to many factors including the town being announced a main touristic area from now on, plans for new marina's and a golf course are underway.
Dalaman town itself, has many shops, resturants, bars and tea gardens and is growing quickly due to the investment in the area. Dalaman infact has its own huge naturel beach, although not commercial 'yet' it is still pleasant and hosts lots of wildlife.
The town is ideally situated for lots of resort area's but perfect if you prefer a quieter place to base yourself. There is also a tunnel underway to connect the town of Gocek and Dalaman, reducing the journey to only 5 or 10 minutes drive.
GOCEK
Set at the north-west end of the Gulf of Fethiye, Gocek is blessed with magnificent scenery. Backed by majestic mountains and substantial pine forests it looks out over the Twelve Islands, which provide shelter for Gocek's almost circular bay that has made the village such a perfect, natural harbor. Lured by such perfection, the yachting community has long made Gocek a favorite, and it is also a popular stop for gullet cruises.
Perhaps this explains Gocek's impressive range of facilities for a place that remains so blissfully unspoiled: there are only a handful of small hotels and pensions, yet all along the wide, landscaped promenade that fringes the quayside, there are plenty of eateries, from simple cafes to excellent restaurants specializing in delicious fresh fish. In the back streets and around the old village square by the mosque, there is a surprising array of interesting craft shops.
From the harbor you can take boat trips around the Twelve Islands and a boat is also the natural choice of transport to reach Gocek's beaches, the nearest of which lies just a little further around the bay. An enjoyable, 20-minute trip - which is provided daily free of charge for Simply Turkey guests - takes you to an immensely picturesque cove on Gocek Island, where you can feel like Robinson Crusoe for the day!
Gocek which recently became the meeting point of yachtsmen and lovers of the sea, has attained a justified fame with its natural position. The coves where colorful yachts ranging from the latest models to small vessels meet, can be visited in all seasons. In addition to being an ideal place from the standpoint of wind, sea and air temperature, it is only 22 km from the Dalaman Airport with international standards. Also the yacht marina built in recent years and improved rapidly has placed Gocek into a privileged state. Any plane that you board, for example, in Istanbul, Ankara and even some places abroad would relieve you from the problems of world and take to the blue-green paradise of Gocek.
Besides all of these, Gocek is, at the furthest north end of Fethiye bay, and is in a location very close to both the islands and to the coves each more beautiful than the other. You can meet all of your requirements here before starting out for a blue voyage and very easily come back within few days to replenish your supplies.
Gocek which was a small village until very recently has now became a municipality within a very short period of time with the yacht marina. Due to its location on the Fethiye highway, in Gocek where land transportation is also made, you can obtain all the provisions you need to world standards as well as being able to find all kinds of domestic and foreign newspapers, books, and other publications. It is possible to enter into the port of Gocek, regardless of day or night, without any danger at all.
DIDIM (DIDYMA)
Located 70 km (40miles) south of Kusadasi, Didim is a summer resort famous for it's long beaches and nearby historical sites such as Miletos, Priene and the Temple of Apollon. Altinkum (Meaning Golden Sand in Turkish) near Didim which was once a tiny fishing village has turned into a small touristic town with many hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars. Altinkum is the most famous bar and beach of Didim which has a coastal length of 50 km (30 miles).
THE HISTORY OF DIDYMA
On the southwest Aegean coast of Anatolia, Didyma the sacred place of ancient Anatolia, is only 4 km away from the sea and 15 kms. to the south of Akkoy, a small village of the city of Aydin. Didyma was a sacred place starting from the 8th century B.C. There are two important temples; Apollon and Artemis temples.
The Apollon temple was the more prominent one of these two. Before Hellenistic age in Anatolia, the temple of Apollon was a small archaic temple, far earlier than the foundation of the remarkable sanctuary of worship devoted to god Apollon.
During archaic and Hellenistic periods, the temple of Apollon became a prime sacred site for Anatolians. The whole structure was destroyed by Persians in 494 B.C. and the cult of Apollon was taken to Persia.
Didyma was reconstructed and the cult statue was brought back from Ekbatana under the leadership of Diadochen Seleukos I. He began to build a new temple in place of the old one in 300 B.C. The whole structure was completed in more than 300 years. During the Byzantine age, the temple was used as a fortress and later as a church. An earthquake, in the 15th century, damaged the temple and the surrounding structures. Since then it is left as a ruin.