Antalya

Antalya is a jewel of Turkey’s “Gold Coast,” an exquisite land of sun, sea, and history. The settlement and its environs stretch back to the dawn of humanity, as evidenced by Paleolithic finds discovered in the nearby Karain and Beldibi caves and Early Bronze Age finds at Semahöyük.

Ancient and Roman History

The ancient name Attaleia is derived from the Pergamene king Attalos II Philadelphus, who founded the city on the Pamphylian seacoast around 150 B.C. In 133 B.C., Antalya and Pergamon’s other possessions in Asia Minor were taken over by Rome.

Antalya, known as “Attalia” in biblical texts, played a significant role in early Christianity. The Apostle Paul set sail from here with Barnabas on his first missionary journey: “They passed through Pisidia and reached Pamphylia. Then after proclaiming the word at Perge they went down to Attalia and from there sailed for Antioch” (Acts 14:24-26).

In 130 A.D., the Roman Emperor Hadrian visited the city during his travels through the empire. This visit resulted in the monumental arch built in his honor, a monument that still stands today.

Byzantine and Seljuk Periods

During Byzantine times, Antalya served as an archdiocese and remained an important religious center. Following the Seljuk capture, the city continued to thrive as a significant commercial and military port.

Seljuk architecture shaped much of medieval Antalya. The Kesik (“cut-off”) minaret and Yivli (“fluted”) minaret were built during the reign of Alaeddin Keykubad I (1219-1236). The Yivli minaret has become an iconic symbol of modern Antalya.

Historical Monuments and Architecture

Much of old Antalya lies beneath the modern city, but several structures have survived. The Hidirlik tower stands as one of the few remaining fortifications from the city’s ancient defenses.

Hadrian’s Gate, originally constructed as a victory arch, is another significant monument. The Karatay medresse, built during Alaeddin Keykubad I’s reign, represents fine Seljuk architectural achievement.

The ancient castle overlooking the harbor, with its old houses nestled inside, is worth exploring. The Antalya Museum is essential for anyone interested in the region’s art and history.

Nearby Archaeological Sites

The area around Antalya offers exceptional one-day excursions to ancient Lycian, Pisidian, and Pamphylian sites. Termessos sits amidst lofty peaks above Antalya, while Perge is located 17 kilometers away and Aspendos 40 kilometers along the road to Alanya.

Side, 80 kilometers from Antalya, and inland cities like Selge and Syllion are also accessible. In the direction of Kemer lies Phaselis, a marvelous archaeological site surrounded by a seaside pine forest.

Natural Attractions

Antalya’s natural beauty complements its historical significance. The waterfalls at Duden, Kursunlu, and Manavgat offer refreshing escapes on hot Mediterranean summer days.

Seljuk Caravanserais

As an important Seljuk seaport, Antalya was connected by numerous trade routes to the interior and beyond. Many Seljuk caravanserais remain in the vicinity, including Alarahan, built in 1231 by Alaeddin Keykubad I.

Şarapsahan and Kırkgözhan were both constructed during the reign of Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev II (1236-1245). Evdirhan, built by Izzeddin Keykavus, is another example of these important structures.

All of these caravanserais are located on the roadside. Yusufhan and Incirlihan stand a short distance from the modern road as one approaches Antalya from the direction of Burdur.