Antalya

Antalya is a large town and tourist destination, situated on the Mediterranean coast of southwestern Turkey. Because of the archaeological and natural riches of the area, Antalya is also known as the Turkish Riviera.

Antalya by sinecan

 It is the capital city of Antalya Province. The population of the city is 603,190 (2000 census) but reaches up to two million in summers at the height of tourism season.

Situated on a steep cliff over the Mediterranean, Antalya is a picturesque city surrounded by mountains. Developments in tourism, starting in the 1970s, have transformed the city into an international resort. With its airport and central location, Antalya is "the capital of Turkish tourism", a gateway for the Turkish riviera and many historical sites. Furthermore, with its palm-lined boulevards, its prize-winning marina, the unspoilt historical neighbourhood of Kaleiçi, and the modern developments along the coast, the city of Antalya is a major attraction in its own right. Antalya and its surroundings are a very important part of Turkish tourism.

Antalya has plenty of accommodation, a very hot climate and many places to visit both in and around the city, including traces of Pamphylian, Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman architecture and cultures.

 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.

Natural Parks: Taurus moutains with an elevation of at least 1000m height, are quite cool even in the summer and the people of Antalya and the nomadic Yoruk people spend their summers up here. The primary highland villages are Bakirli, Feslegen, Yesil Yayla and Saklikent.

Koprulu Canyon National Park

The Koprulu Canyon National Park is within the boundaries of Manavgat. It is a 14 Km. long and 100 m. wide valley between Balasan village and Beskonak. It is thickly covered in cedar trees and its resemblance to the "Fairy Chimneys" of Cappadocia, albeit in the from of nature, is striking. The ancient stone bridge straddling the Kopru stream is still in use today.

Termessos National Park

The Termessos National Park is 30 Km. along the Antalya Korkuteli highway. This was the site of the ancient city of Termessos. Animal species in danger of being decimated can readily find a breeding ground here. The park, which is covered by wild flora, is of unusual beauty.

Olympos National Park

To the west of Antalya rise the snowcapped peaks of the Olympos range, where many antique cities, caves bearing the mark of early man, innumerable plantsand animals are under protection in the Olympos National Park.

Beaches of Antalya:  Kumluca and the many coves between Antalya and Finike are home to some of the most famous holiday resorts in Turkey, like Kemer, Camyuva, Belek, Cirali and Adrasan. Closer to the city, Konyaalti is 3 km on west of the city, and Lara beach is 10 km on east and well connected by minibus.

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