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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.
Sightseeing
City
Walls: The memorial Hadrian Arch and The Clock Tower are
remarkable and date back to Hellenistic era.
Kaleici: This is the nucleus of a city which embraced many
civilizations during time. It is now restored and has became a most
attractive touristic centre with its hotels, restaurants, shopping
and entertainment facilities. Kalei,ci retains all the original
ancient Turkish archaeological characteristics. The port's marina
has been completely restored and is wellworth visiting. The
restoration activities in Kaleici won the Golden Apple Prize, the
Oscar of tourism.
Antalya Museum: A prize winning museum and one of the most
notable archaeology museums, of the world. It is also the only
museum in Turkey with a children's department exhibiting ancient
monuments appealing to children.
Hadrian's Gate: This ornamental marble arch was constructed in
2nd century BC by the Romans in honour of the Emperor Hadrian. It is
the most amazing area in the whole ancient Pamphylia region.
Kesik Minaret (Broken Minaret): Once a Byzantine Panaglia
church, later converted into a mosque.
Yivli Minaret: This fluted minaret of 13th century was built by
the Seljuks. Decorated with dark blue and turquouise tiles, the
minaret eventually became the symbol of the city.
Karatay Medresesi, Hidirilk Tower, Ahi Yusuf Mescidi, Iskele Mosque,
Murat Pasa Mosque, Tekeli Mehmet Pasa Mosque, Balibey Mosque,
Musellim Mosque, Seyh Sinan Efendi Mosque and Osman Efendi Mosque
are other places to be visited.
"Han"s are Seljuk or Ottoman inns which have architectural
significance. Some worth visiting are the Evdir Han, Klrkoz Han,
Alara Han and Castle and Sarapsu (Serapsu) Han.
Ancient Cities
Termessos: It is a Pisidyan city with remnants of an agora,
theatre and an odion. It has a reputation of being the most
magnificent necropolis on the Mediterranean, 35 kms northwest of
Antalya.
Perge: 18 kms northeast of Antalya. The ruins are spread on two
hills, the theatre on one and the acropolis on the other. According
to the legend the city was built by three heros from Troy.
Sillyon: 34 kms from Antalya on the Alanya direction. It is
situated between Aspendos and Perge and dates back to 4th.century
BC.
Aspendos: One of the most important Pamphilian cities. It is
situated on the point where the Kopru River meets the sea. Once an
important port and a commercal centre, it has a reputation for
raising the best horses on earth. The odeon, basilica, galleria and
fountains are worth seeing.
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