Aegean Region

On Kadifekale, Mt. Pagos, stands the impressive ruins of a castle and its walls, built by Lysimachus in the reign of Alexander the Great, which still dominate Izmir today. The castle offers an excellent vantage point to enjoy the magnificent view over the Gulf of Izmir.

The Agora, or marketplace, in the Namazgah Quarter was originally constructed during the rule of Alexander the Great. What remains today, however, dates from the rebuilding under Marcus Aurelius after a devastating earthquake in 178 A.D. The Sirinyer and Yesildere Aqueducts , two examples of Roman engineering which span the Meles River, supplied Izmir's water throughout the Byzantine and Ottoman eras. me Saint Polycarp Church remains are of the oldest church in Izmir, and symbolize the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse community. Saint Polycarp was martyred at Kadifekale by the Romans in 155 A.D. According to legend, when they tried to bum him, the flames wouldn't touch him and they finally stabbed him to death. The church was reconstructed in 1620 by Suleyman the Magnificent.

An 18th century Ottoman inn, the Kizlaragasi Han, a fine example of the architecture of the period, is being restored to its former glory. The symbol of Izmir, the Saat Kulesi, or Clock Tower, stands in Konak Square - the heart of the city. A gift from the Sultan Abdulhamid, and built in 1901, it is decorated in an elaborate; late-Ottoman style. Restored old houses fill the old Asansor quarter, also known as the Jewish quarter. In this quarter, Dario Moreno Sokagi is the main pedestrian street to the Asansor, an elevator from the 19th century which is fifty-one meters in height, and provides access between the lower and upper streets. Situated on the upper side, the Asansor restaurant offers a beautiful view of Izmir.

Camalti, 15 km west of Karsiyaka, is an area of coastal marshes and salt fields that is preserved as an important bird sanctuary - the Izmir Bird Paradise. Enthusiasts can spot many species, including flamingos and pelicans. The Yamanlar Camligi, a pine forest near the lovely Karagol Lake, 40 km northeast of Karsiyaka, is a popular picnic spot that also provides restaurants and a swimming pool.

A Hittite bas-relief is carved into the rock at Kemalpasa (20 km from Izmir) which lies in the Karabel Pass. On the highest point above Izmir, Belkahve overlooks the Gulf of Izmir and is a relaxing spot to enjoy a cup of Turkish coffee. A favorite haunt of Ataturk's, it is now the site of the largest statue in his honor.

The Seven Churches of the Apocalypse, mentioned by St. John in the Book of Revelations, formed separate and distinct communities, and are all found in Turkey : Izmir (Smyrna), Efes (Ephesus), Eskihisar (Laodicea), Alasehir (Philadelphia), Sart (Sardis), Akhisar (Thyatira), and Bergama (Pergamum). Tours of one to four days can be arranged to see several or all of the churches.

The Cesme Peninsula, lapped by the waters of the Aegean Sea, lies west of Izmir. The name 'Cesme', meaning fountain, refers to the many springs found in the area during the 18th and 19th centuries. It is one of Turkey's most beautiful stretches - surrounded by clear blue sea, with landscapes of cultivated fields of aniseed, sesame and artichokes dotted with fig and gum trees. In the unspoiled bays you can swim in absolute peace. Visitors will find excellent holiday accommodations, restaurants, sports and entertainment facilities.

A 14th century Genoese fortress, restored and enlarged by the Ottomans in the 16th century, dominates the small port of Cesme, 80 km from Izmir. Today the town is a popular holiday ' resort with excellent accommodations and restaurants. The 16th century caravanserai near the fortress, built by Suleyman the Magnificent, has been converted into a hotel, while the 19th century Church of Hagios Haralambos has been restored as the Emir Caka art gallery. Thermal baths offer a health-oriented escape from modern life. Excellent shopping - the finest quality carpets, leather goods, as well as souvenir items are available. At night, a lively, fun atmosphere pervades, especially in the restaurants, cafes, bars and discos along the promenade.

Yachts can be hired to explore the Peninsula's splendid coastline. Cesme hosts an annual International Song Contest in the summer. Also, weekly ferry lines run from Cesme to Venice. The very popular holiday centre of Ilica boasts an excellent white, sandy beach, and the outstanding facilities of the Altin Yunus Marina and Holiday Complex. The bay here is ideal for water sports, especially windsurfing and sailing. The thermal baths around Ilica are very popular; the best being located on Sifne Bay; Paca Limani has a campsite which offers campers comfortable facilities. In Ilica Bay, the colorful International Cakabey Optimist Yacht race is held every year in July.

Ildiri, a quiet seaside village 20 km northeast of Cesme, was ancient Erythrai. Those who climb up to the Acropolis at dusk are rewarded with beautiful views as the sun sinks over the bay and islands. Nearby Gerence Gulf is a pristine inlet northeast of the Cesme Peninsula which can be reached by yacht or car.

The natural surroundings offer relaxation while the bay is ideal for water sports. In Dalyan, a fishing village built on a sheltered deep water inlet just north of Cesme, some of the region's best fish restaurants border the quay of the lively marina. Tourists are attracted by the variety of Ciftlik's accommodations, and by a long, sandy beach (Pirlanta Plaj), just outside of town to the southwest. Camping facilities are available to the south, and nearby stretches one of the area's best beaches, the Altinkum Plaj (Golden Beach).

Windmills, some of which have been converted into attractive restaurants, dot the hill above Alacati, a delightful and typical Aegean town. Alacati lies to the south inland from Ilica and the coast; a couple of kilometers to the south is a good beach. Many lovely bays, accessible only by yacht, are to be found along the coast southeast of the town and ensure peaceful and relaxing anchorage in this popular sailing region. Known in ancient times as Clazomenae, Urla Iskelesi offers a marina as well as plentiful accommodation in all price ranges. Restaurants on the top of Guvendik hill afford a marvelous view of the bay and its islands.

The prosperous little fishing village of Cesmealti is notable for its simple yet excellent fish restaurants. As you drive along the panoramic Karaburun Peninsula coast road you pass several peaceful bays and quaint fishing villages: Balikliova, Mordogan and Karaburun. At Karaburun, pleasant hotels, tea gardens and fish restaurants sit between the beautiful mountain backdrop and the clear, clean water. From Manastir Mountain, you can enjoy an unforgettable view of the Karaburun coast, the Foca coastline opposite, and the entrance to the Gulf of Izmir.

On the southern side of the Cesme Peninsula, near the town of Seferihisar, is the small picturesque marina of Sigacik. This important yachting centre is surrounded by fortifications dating from the Genoese period and is a good point from which to visit the Temple of Dionysus at the antique site of Teos as well as the lovely Akkum beach.

The acropolis of Assos is 238 meters above sea-level, and the Temple of Athena was constructed on this site in the 6th century B.C. This Doric temple is being restored to its former glory and role as guardian of the Biga Peninsula and Edremit Gulf. Linger to see the moonlight scattered through the temple ruins, or rise early for the gentle awakening of dawn over the acropolis, from the top of which you can take in the magnificent vista of the Gulf of Edremit; and you will appreciate why this heavenly location was chosen. On the terraces descending to the sea are agoras, a gymnasium and a theatre. From the northern comer of the acropolis, you can see a mosque, a bridge and fortress, all built in the 14th century by the Ottoman Sultan Murat I. Below lies a tiny and idyllic ancient harbor. Assos has gained the reputation of being the center of the Turkish art community with its lively, friendly and bohemian atmosphere. This may be the holiday you will remember for years to come.

The exquisite Menderes River valley, known in the West as the Meander, has been the cradle of many civilizations. Set amidst pine, olive and oleander trees, the magnificent Camici (Bafa) Lake is a lovely place to stopover.

The yearly throng of visitors has encouraged small entrepreneurs to make shopping in Bodrum a delight. Leather goods of all kinds, natural sponges and the local blue glass beads are among the bargains to be found in the friendly little shops along the narrow, white-walled streets. Charming boutiques offer kilims, carpets, sandals and embroidery as well as original fashions in soft cotton. Bodrum has gained the reputation as the center of the Turkish art community with its lively, friendly and Bohemian atmosphere and many small galleries. This community has encouraged an informal day-time lifestyle and a night-time of excitement. The evenings in Bodrum are for sitting idly in one of the many restaurants, dining on fresh seafood and other Aegean specialties.

Afterwards nightclubs (some with cabaret) and superb discos keep you going until dawn. Bodrum, known in ancient times as Hallicarnassos, was the birthplace of Herodotus and the site of King Mausolus's Tomb (4th century B.C.), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In the harbor, the Bodrum Castle, or the medieval castle of St. Peter, is a fine example of 15th century Crusader architecture, and has been converted into the Museum of Underwater Archaeology, with remains dating as far back as the Bronze Age. The stunning panoramic view from Goktepe, nearby, is much photographed by visitors to the museum's second-century theatre.

The beautiful Bodrum Peninsula suits holidaymakers interested in a subdued and relaxing atmosphere. Enchanting villages, with guest-houses and small hotels on quiet bays, dot the peninsula. On the southern coast, Bardakci, Gumbet, Bitez, Aktur, Ortakent Yalisi, Karaincir, Bagla and Akyarlar have fine, sandy beaches Campers and windsurfers enjoy Gumbet, and at Bitez colorful sailboards weave skillfully among the masts of yachts in the bay. On shore, you can enjoy quiet walks through the orange and tangerine groves bordering the beach. Ortakent has one of the longest stretches of sandy beach in the area and offers an ideal place for relaxing in solitude. One of the most beautiful beaches on the Bodrum peninsula, Karaincir, is ideal for lively active days by the sea and relaxed, leisurely evenings with local villagers. Finally, Akyarlar enjoys a well-deserved reputation for the fine, powdery sand of its beach.

Turgutreis, Gumusluk and Yalikavak, all with excellent beaches, lie on the western side of the peninsula and are ideal for swimming, sunbathing and water sports. In Turgutreis, the birthplace of a great Turkish admiral of the same name, you will find a monument honoring him. In the ancient port of Myndos (Gumusluk) you can easily make many friends with the hospitable and outgoing local population. In Yalikavak, white-washed houses with cascading bougainvillea line narrow streets. Small cafes and the occasional windmill create a picturesque setting. See the north coast of the peninsula - Torba, Turkbuku, Golkoy and Gundogan - by road or, even better, hire a boat and crew to explore the quiet coves, citrus groves and wooded islands. Little windmills which still provide the energy to grind grain, crown hills covered with olive trees. Torba, a modern village with holiday villas and a nice marina is located 8 km north of Bodrum. Golkoy and Turkbuku are small and simple fishing villages with a handful of taverns overlooking a lovely bay.

After a boat trip to Karaada, half an hour from Bodrum, you can bathe in the grotto where the warm mineral waters flowing out of the rocks are believed to beautify the complexion. The translucent and deep waters of the Gulf of Gokova, on the southern shore of the Bodrum peninsula vary from the darkest blue to the palest turquoise, and the coastline is thickly wooded with every hue of green. In the evening, the sea reflects the mountains silhouetted against the setting sun, and at night it shimmers with phosphorescence. You can take a yacht tour or hire a boat from Bodrum for a two, three or seven day tour of the gulf.

The Gulf of Gulluk, and harbor of the same name, lie north of the Bodrum peninsula on the Aegean. The mythological Dolphin Boy is said to have been born a little farther to the north at Kiyikislacik (lassos). South of Gulluk, Varvil, ancient Bargilya, sits at the end of a deep narrow inlet surrounded by olive covered hillsides. Inland from Gulluk is Milas, ancient Mylasa, known for its beautiful carpets - a century old tradition which continues today. The weavers rarely mind a visitor watching them at work. Plenty of old Turkish houses with carved timbers and latticed windows provide examples of the vernacular architectural style. Gumuskesen, a monumental tomb, thought to be a small copy of the famous Hallicarnassos Mausoleum, stands in the west of the city.

In Marmaris, sample the typical Turkish cuisine in one of the marina restaurants and drink raki, anisette, the traditional Turkish way, over ice and diluted with water. Later stroll along the brightly lit and palm-lined promenade and indulge yourself at one of the ice cream vendors. Energetic entertainment at a lively bar or dancing until dawn at a sophisticated disco can end a perfect day.

There are many good buys in Marmaris' boutiques, colorful bazaars and markets. You can find excellent leather and suede goods, copper and brassware, jewellery and objects carved of onyx. Turkish carpets, textiles and embroidery make good handcrafted souvenirs, and the locally produced pine -scented honey called cambali is superb.

Ancient Marmaris, Physkos, was an important stage on the Anatolia-Rhodes-Egypt trade route. In the 16th century Suleyman the Magnificent had a citadel built on a hill, the remains of which can still be seen today. Swimmers should not miss Atat�rk Park, to the east of Marmaris, where a shallow beach, extending to the bay leads to safe waters. The clear sea is warm enough for swimming from early May until late September. Marmaris also has horseback riding and tennis centers for the sports enthusiast. This is one of the few places in the world where you can delight in the heady aroma of the frankincense tree. Weekly ferry lines run between Marmaris and Venice during the summer season.

Near Marmaris at Icmeler, the hazy mountains of the interior slope down to sandy beaches. Under blue skies, the clear sea is ideal for all types of water sports. Many find this area so irresistible that they stay longer than originally planned. And there are some excellent accommodations here, in which you can prolong your contact with nature. As you drive down from the high mountains into the village of Turunc, the scene opens out onto the spectacular blue waters beyond the natural harbor. The village itself is small and scattered around the bay: Most of the restaurants border the beach. A few bars and restaurants farther back from the water's edge offer fresh fish and superb views. Kumlubuk, a turquoise paradise, lies on the southern side of the bay. On the northern side, above the water, stands the ancient Rhodian city of Amos. Loryma, at the tip of the Bozburun Peninsula, where the ruins of the ancient harbor and castle remain, can only be reached by boat. Natural quiet bays and scattered islands punctuate the northern shore of the peninsula, ideal for those who want to get away from it all.

Sedir Island, in the Gulf of Gokova, is the ancient Cedrai. Its old city walls, theatre and temples can be visited by driving from Marmaris north to Gelibolu Bay and then crossing by boat. This voyage also offers an unforgettable panoramic view of the mountain scenery across the bay. At the head of the gulf is the village of Gokova Whose houses seem to cascade down the mountainside. Restaurants built over bubbling, fresh water streams that fall from the highlands create an ,unforgettable setting. The towering pines and cool breezes of Gokova Park are often a welcome respite from the hot sun.

The Datca Peninsula provides a natural boundary between the Aegean Sea, the Gulf of Gokova to the north, and the Mediterranean Sea, the Gulf of Hisaronu to the south. Along all the 75 km from Marmaris to Datca, the road winds among trees and hills, permitting lovely views over the expanse of blue. Campers have many perfect settings to choose from; the less adventurous can stay in one of the many comfortable holiday villages. 25 km to Datca is the beautiful Aktur beach. In Datca white-washed buildings hung with bougainvillea decorate the town. The marina is on the southern bay; while swimmers prefer the northern bay. Around the marina bars, cafes and a wide selection of shops keep the tourist interested. Some shops remain open well into the evening. Relaxing over a pre-dinner drink and then a delicious meal in a welcoming restaurant is a popular way to spend the evening hours. Of course, the local eateries offer both fresh fish and classical Turkish cuisine. With any remaining energy, take a stroll and find a disco to your liking to while away until the early morning hours. 10 km north of Datca, the Kormen Harbour is connected to Bodrum by a daily ferry line.

As you travel out of Datca, either by road or by boat, you will find unspoilt bays and golden sandy beaches. Kargi is one of the most popular bays in the region. At the end of the peninsula (38 km from Datca) stands the ancient Carian city of Knidos, described by Strabo as "a city that was built for the most beautiful of goddesses, Aphrodite, on the most beautiful of peninsulas." Famous as a center of art and culture in the fourth century B.C. the city had two harbors: one on the Aegean and the other on the Mediterranean. The remains of a circular temple dedicated to the goddess of love overlook the two harbors; the arcaded way was built of white marble, heart-shaped columns. The legendary Aphrodite of Praxiteles' statue, one of the most beautiful sculptures of antiquity, once graced this temple.

The town of Koycegiz lies at the northern end of a lake of the same name and Is joined to the Mediterranean by a natural channel. This unique environment is being preserved as a nature and wildlife sanctuary. A road shaded with aromatic frankincense trees leads to the tiny village of Dalyan on the inland waterway. The maze of channels is easily explored by boat as you immerse yourself in this tranquil dream world. The restaurants which line the waterways specialize in delicious meals of fresh fish. High on the cliff face, at a bend in the river, above the fascinating ancient harbor city of Caunos, magnificent tombs were carved into the rock. The Dalyan Delta, with a long, golden sandy beach at its mouth, is a nature conservation area and a refuge for sea turtles (Caretta Caretta) and blue crabs.

Explore the bay and the beautiful Blue Lagoon, Olu Deniz, where the calm, crystal clear water is ideal for swimming and other water sports. The Blue Lagoon is one of the best places in the world to do absolutely nothing except soak up the sun amid stunning natural surroundings. At Mt. Baba (1,969 m), you can paraglide into the Blue Lagoon. For those who' prefer accommodation facilities, Belcegiz beach is recommended. Intoxicating scenery surrounds Kidirak's beach and shady park. On Gemiler Island (St Nicholas's Island), Byzantine ruins lie tucked among the pines. South of Kidirak beach, Koturumsu Bay is reachable only by boat. Beyond the idyllic beach, a forest, waterfalls and a valley filled with hundreds of varieties of butterflies await the explorer.

High in the mountains above Fethiye rushing torrents cut a narrow gorge through the mountains, creating Saklikent (Hidden City). A cool refuge on hot summer days, Saklikent is a favorite picnic spot, with rustic restaurants serving delectable fresh trout. 36 km south of Fethiye, Yakakoy (Tlos) is the Oldest city in the Lycian region. The home of the Lycian Hero Bellerophon, visitors can see the remains of a castle, agora, necropolis, theatre, Roman baths and a good view of Esen Valley. 2 km east of the villages is Tlos Park, ideal for picnicking. Pinara, 49 km south of Fethiye, is another ancient mountain city; it is ideal for trekking and visitors can see the remains of a theatre, agora, rock tomb, baths and ancient brothels.