Antalya, Turkey: Mediterranean Sea at the Foot of the Western Taurus

Walking the streets of Antalya, you immediately notice that the city is dominated by the elegant Yivli Minaret, built in the 13th century by the Seljuk sultan Alaeddin Keykubat. Having become the symbol of the city, the tower attracts visitors’ attention especially thanks to its mosaic decorations with bluish hues. Next to the minaret is the mosque of the same name, which housed museum artifacts until the city’s new art gallery was completed.
Within the same ‘külliye’ (an Arabic term referring to a complex of multiple buildings) is the Madrase (Madrasah), a school with a carved stone entrance portal typical of many monuments belonging to the Seljuk dynasty.
Continuing the city tour, you head towards the important Kaleici district (also, fittingly, called ‘old Antalya’), which was the heart of the city until World War II. Life in Antalya, in fact, mainly took place here in narrow alleys, picturesque houses, and among massive stone walls. Today, you can still experience its historic charm at the table, thanks to the exquisite cuisine offered by cozy guesthouses and inns as well as more luxurious hotels.
After admiring the marble triple-arched gate dedicated to Emperor Hadrian’s visit to the city in 130 AD, the historical discovery continues in the Antalya Archaeological Museum. One of the most important in Turkey, the art gallery houses fascinating artifacts divided into about a dozen museum sections.
Bathed by the Mediterranean Sea and boosted by the aforementioned tourist fortunes, Antalya still offers many attractions beyond the city limits.
Sun and sea lovers can enjoy about 300 sunny days a year and wonderful waters to dive into and admire the seabed up to 30 meters deep. Mountain enthusiasts, on the other hand, can dedicate themselves to mountaineering and caving to discover small and large caves fascinating from both historical, geographical, and aesthetic perspectives (one of these being the Karein Cave complex). History buffs can explore interesting historic sites (such as Aspendos), while thrill-seekers and fun lovers cannot miss a few hours of rafting, a jeep safari through the Taurus Mountains, or a day at the water park. Those who prefer calmer activities can enjoy golf, horseback riding, or simply be lulled by the waves of the Mediterranean.