There is no doubt that Antalya is the most beautiful place in the world

There is no doubt that Antalya is the most beautiful place in the world

Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who visited Antalya three times, observed the view of the sea, beaches and snow-capped Taurus Mountains from Lara during his first visit on March 6, 1930 and said: “There is no doubt that Antalya is the most beautiful place on earth.”

Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, who visited Antalya three times, observed the view of the sea, beaches and snow-capped Taurus Mountains from Lara during his first visit on March 6, 1930 and said: “There is no doubt that Antalya is the most beautiful place on earth.”

History of Antalya

Antalya, which means "Home of Attalos", II. It was founded by Attalos. The city, which remained independent for a time with the end of the Kingdom of Pergamum (133 BC), later fell into the hands of pirates. v. In 77 BC it was annexed to Roman territory by the commander Servilius Isauricus. v. In 67 BC it became the base of Pompey's navy. MRS. Hadrian's visit to Attaleia in 130 BC. Chr. ensured the development of the city. Attaleia, whose name was considered the episcopacy center during the Byzantine rule, showed great development after the Turkish conquest. Since the modern city was built on the ancient settlement, there are very few ancient ruins in Antalya. The first visible remains are part of the pier known as the old port and the city wall surrounding the port. Hadrian's Gate, restored in the part of the walls outside the park, is one of the most beautiful ancient monuments of Antalya.
The city of Antalya and its surroundings were called Pamphylia in ancient times, which means "very fertile", and Lycia in the western part. VIII B.C. Those who migrated here from the western shores of the Aegean since the 19th century; They founded cities like Aspendos and Side. II. King of Pergamon II, who reigned in the middle of the century. Attalos had besieged Side. It is about 75 km from Antalya. The king, unable to take Side in the east, came to the place where today's city center is and founded a city. This place was named Attaleia after her. Over time there were people who called it Atalia, Adalya. Antalya is named after him.
In the archaeological excavations, it has been proven that 40,000 years ago people lived in Antalya and its region. The region since 2000 BC BC; It came under the rule of city-states such as Hittites, Pamphylia, Lycia, Cilicia and Persia, Alexander the Great and Antigonus, Ptolemies, Seleucids, Pergamon kingdom, which is considered its successor. Later the Roman state ruled. The ancient name of Antalya was Pamphylia and the cities founded here were mainly used during the 2nd and III. century was at its peak. Towards the end of the 5th century it lost its former splendor.
While the region was under Byzantine rule, as it is known in Eastern Rome or Turkey, it was joined to Turkish lands by the Seljuks in 1207. During the Anatolian Principalities, it came under the rule of Hamitoğulları, a branch of the Teke tribe. The Teke Turkmen are one of the most populous tribes in modern-day Turkmenistan, the former homeland of the Turks. XI. century, some of them came here. Today, the lake region, which lies north of Antalya and is a part of Isparta and Burdur, is also called the Teke region. The center of the Teke Sanjak of the Anatolian province during the Ottoman period was what is now Antalya city center. In those years it was called Teke Sanjak. The current name of the province is actually a slightly modified form of its old name and was given during the Republican period.
XVIII. The famous Ottoman traveler Evliya Çelebi, who came to Antalya in the second half of the century, states that there are four quarters and three thousand houses inside the castle and 24 quarters outside the castle. The city's bazaar was located outside the castle. According to Evliya Çelebi, the port is big enough to accommodate a 200-piece ship. Administratively, Antalya, which was the center of Teke Sanjak and belonged to Konya, was transformed into an independent sanjak in the last years of the Ottoman Empire.

Attractions in Antalya

Antalya, one of the tourist paradises of our country, almost doubles its population every summer. Thousands of local and foreign tourists looking to cool off in the deep blue and clean waters of the Mediterranean flock to the city during the summer months. This season, hotels in Antalya are almost overcrowded. With sea, sand, sun, natural and historical beauties, Antalya appeals to every taste and mood and brings color to the face in the summer months. Whether you want to enjoy the entertainment that lasts until morning in entertainment venues, or retreat to a quiet bay and rest your head. Tired from the heat of Antalya? Turn to the falls. Would you like to add some cultural character to your holiday? Hear the ancient stories of the past by visiting old towns and historic buildings.
places to visit
Karain Cave:

One of our country's largest naturally formed caves, Karain is a deep-rooted natural entity that dates back 500,000 years. The Karain Cave also gives very important information about the history of Anatolia and the Middle East. We encourage you to visit this natural wonder, whose history dates back as far as 500,000 years, and to breathe the extraordinary atmosphere it will offer you.
Düden waterfall:

Düden Waterfall, one of the first places that comes to mind when Antalya is mentioned, is one of the paradisiacal corners of our country. Düden, one of the first stops for those who want to get rid of the sweltering Antalya heat for a bit, always keeps its coolness. In the promenade area around the waterfall there are facilities that leave nothing to be desired.
Kursunlu Waterfall:

Consisting of the combination of 7 different small waterfalls, Kurşunlu Waterfall fascinates those who see it with its extraordinary beauty. We guarantee that with the lush nature surrounding the waterfall, which is located in a 2 km long gorge, you will immediately forget all your worries. If you are one of those who loves to take pictures, this waterfall offers excellent poses for your frame, we tell you!
Manavgat Waterfall:

Manavgat Waterfall, one of those places where reality is more beautiful than photos, has now become one of the symbols of the city. This natural beauty, where a thousand and one shades of green and blue coexist in harmony, is a must-see.
Saklikent Ski Center:

Although Antalya is one of the points identified with our country's trio of sea, sand and sun, it is actually one of those rare cities that are beautiful in every season. If you happen to be in Antalya during the winter months, Saklıkent ski center might be the ideal place for you. You can have an exceptional experience skiing in the Taurus Mountains of Antalya.
Aspendos:

Aspendos, one of the rare ancient theaters preserved in one piece, bears witness to history today with its thousand-year history. Take a seat in Aspendos, which has a storied history, and listen to the ancient stories the stones will tell you.
Ancient city of Termessos:

Located in Güllük Mountain National Park, the ancient city is famous as the place where the dog sarcophagus was found in Antalya Museum. Termessos, famous for resisting the raids of Alexander the Great for a time, continued its existence independently through many eras of history. You can visit the ancient city of Termessos for a fee of 5 TL. However, if you have a Müzekart, you can start your ride for free.
Ancient City of Xanthos:

The ancient city of Xanthos, which differs from other ancient cities by its stunning sea views and delicate handcrafted motifs, welcomes its visitors with the dignity of being 3000 years old. Despite its very ancient history, it also attracts attention as it is one of the strongest ancient cities in our country.
Arykanda Ruins:

For entry into the Arykanda ruins, the finds from the 5th century B.C. included, you do not have to pay any fees. The ancient city, excavated by a researcher named Fellows, was hidden in the woods for many years. You can visit the ruins of Arykanda after 08:00.
Side Antique Theatre:

This historical building, which is a mixture of Hellenistic and Roman architecture, has a magnificent 3-storey stage. You can visit the ancient theater, which contains various decorations and sculptures, for free with the Müzekart. If you don't have a museum card, you have to pay 15 TL at the entrance.

Ancient City of Rhodiapolis:

It is estimated that the ancient city of Kumluca was founded by the Rhodesians. The name of this city, which was ruled by the then colonizing Rhodesians and was a very effective power, is first mentioned in the sources of Hecataeus. It is possible to see the remains of many structures such as necropolis, theater and church in the ancient city. You don't have to pay any fees for ancient city visits.
Ancient city of Selge:

Although the ancient city, located within the boundaries of Manavgat District, was under Persian rule for a time, it continued as an independent city for most of history. In the ancient city built in the 3rd century B.C. There are buildings such as a stadium, a theater and a basilica.
Ancient city of Phaselis:

In the ancient city of Phaselis, surrounded by walls, there are very important monuments. Although the exact date of the founding of the ancient city in Kemer district is not known, it is believed to be in the 7th century BC. estimated. You have the opportunity to visit the ancient city for free by Müzekart, the entrance fee is 20 TL.
Ancient city of Perge:

The architecture of the ancient city of Perge, which welcomes its visitors with its magnificent theater, bears traces of the Hellenistic period. In the ancient city, next to the stadium, carefully preserved to this day, is the famous Plancia Magna sarcophagus. In addition, the entrance gate and the walls of the city are definitely worth seeing. If you have a museum card, you can visit the ancient city for free, where entry costs 25 TL.
Kaleiçi Old Town of Antalya:

Since the 4th century BC BC Kaleiçi is the cradle of many different civilizations. Although worn over time, its beauty is still there. Kaleiçi, which gives you life energy with its port, colorful cute houses and sparkling sea, has a truly unique atmosphere. If you are a lover of nostalgia, you can travel back in time with the old shops, inns and baths of Kaleiçi.
Clock Tower of Antalya:

Antalya Clock Tower, located in one of the Kaleiçi bastions, was built in 1901 by the German Emperor II. It was given to Abdulhamid. After sipping your tea in front of the striking view of the tower, you can take a close look at the tower's architecture, which fascinates with every detail.
Hadrian's Gate:

Also called Üçkapılar by the locals, Hadrian's Gate has a very ancient history. The building on the walls was built in 130 BC. Built in honor of the Roman Emperor Hadrian. We recommend you put the building, which has not lost its charm since then, on your must-see list.
Alanya Castle:

Alanya Castle, now called the Open Air Museum, is one of the city's attractions due to its location. The destructive hand of time has not touched Alanya Castle. The wall length of the preserved castle of Alanya is more than 6 km. The castle with 140 bastions and 400 cisterns is one of the rarest examples of Seljuk architecture. Entrance to Alanya Castle, which you can visit at any time, costs 15 TL.
Kesik Minaret:

Although not in active use, the Kesik Minaret, which is one of the landmarks of Kaleiçi, welcomes many visitors. It was also called Şehzade Korkut Mosque because it was converted into a mosque by Şehzade Korkut. You should not end your Antalya trip without photographing this magnificent minaret, which was restored after a fire in 1974.
Muratpaşa Mosque:

The Muratpaşa Mosque, which has existed since the 16th century, stands out for its unique craftsmanship and especially for its pulpit. The mosque, located within the borders of Muratpaşa district, will be one of the unforgettable moments of your trip.
Yivli Minaret:

The Yivli Minaret, added to the structure built by the Seljuk ruler Alaaddin Keykubat, is one of the first examples of Islamic structures in Antalya. It is one of the rare specimens of its kind in the world.
Hıdırlık Tower:

The tower, which has an imposing appearance, was used as a lighthouse to watch ships. The tower, which has a cylindrical structure, amazes above all with its solidity.
Lycian Way:

The road to the Gelidonya lighthouse, which has the award for the best landscape in our country, amazes everyone with its unique nature. The Lycian Way, where green and blue harmonize, is a natural studio for photography lovers. In addition, it is very popular with those who want to go trekking or cycling.

* Incidentally, we are very often asked about shopping facilities and other diverse options in the respective towns and cities. Since this topic is very extensive, we have set up the 'Insider Club' platform where you can find all sorts of information about shopping, events, activities, food & drink and much more.