When the Roman Empire was divided into two at the end of the 4th century, Trabzon remained under the sovereignty of the Eastern Roman Empire which later on was called as Byzantine Empire. When relations and wars between the Byzantines and the Arabs started, the Arabs called the people under the Roman Sovereignty as Rum, and the areas under the Roman sovereignty as Diyar-i Rum or Memleket-ul Rum (land of Rums).
Anatolia, as it was under the Roman sovereignty at that time, was mentioned as Diyar-i Rum. Later, since the Turks also accepted to use the word Rum, the Province of Anatolia was called Eyalet-i Rum, the Anatolia Sultan, Sultan-i Rum, and Mevlana of Anatolia as Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi.The Byzantines gave special importance to Trabzon from the military point of view. During the reign of Emperor Justinian in the 6th century the city walls were thoroughly repaired and enlarged. A road from Trabzon to Persia was opened. Huts for defense were built at bends and effort was given to establish Christianity so that the tribe Can, the dwellers along the road would be obedient. Aqueducts of Saint Eugenius were built.
In the 8th century the Moslem Arab armies entered Anatolia and came down to Trabzon, invading the area around the citadel. They saw hazel nuts for the first time.
In the 9th century the Moslem Turkish armies started coming to the Trabzon area and outer part of the citadel went under the sovereignty of the Moslem Turks. Inside the citadel there were still the Greek colonists. It is in this period that construction of the Saint Ann Church in the Ayvasil district completed.
In the 10th century Islamism outside the citadel speeded up and the TurksMoslems. Two of the four routes of the Seljuk raids which began in the 11th century passed through the Eastern Black Sea region and Trabzon was then the native country Moslem Turks. Canik was one of the eight provinces of the country conquered by the Moslem Turks in AnatoliaTurkey was given for the first time in 1081. Its principal city was Trabzon (the name Canik derived from the word Canika, the place where the Can Tribe lived near Macka area in the south of Trabzon) and moved to the west, and the name Samsun as time passed by derived from it. In the second half of the 11th century there were two Trabzon’s: The outer part of the citadel was under the sovereignty of the Danismeds; The inner part of the citadel was under the sovereignty of the Byzantines. around became and the name
After the fights over the throne started in Byzantium (Istanbul) in the 12th century, the Commenos family was dethroned, young Alexis Commenos escaped to Georgia. He declared his Kingdom in Georgia in 1204 and came to Trabzon by the help of the Christian Georgians. He took the citadel from the Byzantian governor who was at his side and made Trabzon the capital of his Kingdom; the state of Trabzon emerged. As the King was a ChristianAnatolia and the ignorant who were deceived by them used the name, Rum Pontus state. Anatolian, the state was also called as the Trabzon Rum State. But the people with the intention to capture
In the 13th century when the Trabzon state was founded, the Seljuk Turks besieged Trabzon twice and bound them to tax. The King of Trabzon, Alexis Commenos, fortified the citadel and ditches were dug around it. The outer part of the citadel became a large commercial city and was mentioned as “The pupil of whole Asia”. The palace of the King and official buildings were placed on the high plains of the inner fortress. The commercial life of the country that extended from Batum to Kerempe including Crimea which was in the hands of the Genoese and the Venetians. On the coast of the city there were castles and warehouses.
In the mid-13th century the Trabzon state, being rather small, began to be surrounded by the Cepnis. The Cepnis under the sovereignty of the Sungurlu tribe, from the Ucok subdivision of the Oguz division, who was the son of Kara Han and the grandchild of Turk Han, settled down on the borders of the Trabzon state. While there were Christian Kings in the inner citadel Islam Islamicdeath in the 14th century. was spreading quickly in the outer citadel. Ahi Evren Dede
, an missionary, was buried in Boztepe after his
Meanwhile Trabzon became the center of Europe-Asia trade. But MoslemSinop, were raiding the coasts and plundering the city. The King of Trabzon, Alexis Commenos II (1297-1333) who had the Giresun castle built, had constructed walls against the sea which is supposed to be the Moloz District now. pirates, coming particularly from
In the beginning of the 15th century Tamerlane invaded Anatolia and captured Trabzon too. But he did not add it to his Empire, he taxed it under the administration of his son Halil Mirza.
In 1411 the Saint Savas Church built in the Boztepe slope was decorated; according to the people the construction of the bell tower and belfry of the Saint Sophia Church was completed in 1427 and the drawing of the pictures on the arches of the entrance door of the Church was terminated in 1444.
A very bad struggle for the throne had started in Trabzon, it was evident that the last years of the Trabzon State had come. As a matter of fact the ruler of the Ottoman Empire Sultan Murat II had attacked Trabzon in 1442 from the sea and returned home taking slaves and taxes. The ambassador of Trabzon was also among those who congratulated Sultan Mehmet (The Conqueror) when he was enthroned in Edirne in 1451. During the preparation of the conquest of Istanbul in 1452, first the Bogazkesen Castle (Rumeli Hisari) was built in order to put an end to bonds between Trabzon and Istanbul; And after he conquered Istanbul in 1453, he also bound Trabzon to tax for 2000 duke golden coins. When it was not paid he sent Hizir Bey, the tutor of his son Sehzade Beyazid who was the governor in Amasya, over Trabzon in 1456.
Hizir Bey surrendered Trabzon and established his headquarters in the eastern section (now the Municipal building). But since the King of Trabzon declared that he would pay the tax required, he returned. The tax was sent to Istanbul in 1457 and was accepted only if the amount was increased to 3000 duke golden coins.
The King of Trabzon Commenos IV began to search remedies to be saved from this pressure of the Ottomans and tried to bring together all the governments and nations from Caucasia and the coasts of Euphrates (Firat) River to France and Vatican in opposition to the Ottoman State. At the end, by applying the old tradition, he engaged his beautiful girl to Uzun Hasan Bey, the ruler of Akkoyunlu, provided that he should defend Trabzon against the Ottomans. The last King David Commenos who took his place in 1458, first sent his niece to Uzun Hasan Bey so that she could be his wife and requested not to be taxed. Uzun Hasan Bey in return to Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror, asked him not to tax Trabzon, and also that he wanted back the debt that remained from his ancestors. The Conqueror by sending back the envoys told that he would personally come and pay his debt. In 1461, he set off to Trabzon.
Uzun Hasan Bey was afraid and begged pardon by sending his mother Sara Hatun to Ercincan, Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror said that he would forgive in case no help was rendered to Trabzon, but continued his voyage to Trabzon taking Sara Hatun with him. The army was divided into two in Bayburt. One part went on taking a separate route under the command of the Grand Vizier Mahmut Pasha. The route which the Conqueror followed was very difficult, particularly while crossing the Bulgar mountain. Sara Hatun wanted to take an advantage of this and tried to persuade the Conqueror to give up the voyage. But he did not take her words into consideration and Trabzon was surrounded from land and sea. The King of Trabzon David Commenos who learned that the Sultan and the Grand Vizier were coming at the head of the army, forgot about Trabzon which in fact was not of his own. He notified that he would give back the citadel if another suitable piece equal to the income of Trabzon was given. He assigned Amirutzes, his chief private secretary, as a representative and the Conqueror made the Gran VizierMehmet the Conqueror entered the citadel of Trabzon on Monday, the 26th of October 1461, he closed the phase of the Trabzon State that lasted 250 years in history. The Commander of the Fleet and the Governor of Gelibolu Kazim Bey took over the administration of the city. Mahmut Pasha his representative. Amirutzes and Mahmut Pasha were cousins. Therefore discussions of surrender concluded immediately and Sultan
Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror first of all changed the Panaghia Krys Krysokephalos church into a mosque and prayed in it. It was called the Ortahisar Mosque; now it is called Fatih Mosque. Later he turned Saint Eugenes church into a mosque and the first Friday Prayer was performed; it was called the Yenicuma Mosque. Since the community of a church in front of Mumhane became Moslems, this church was also turned into a mosqueMosque. But it was destroyed in 1788. and was called Karabas
Sultan Mehmet the Conqueror gave the jewels left over from the Trabzon State to Uzun Hasan Bey’s mother Sara Hatun and sent her to her son. The son of Commenos, the ex-king of Trabzon, settled in the region named Pera in Istanbul and accepted Islam. The people of Istanbul called that place Beyoglu meaning the place where the son of the Trabzon Bey stayed.
The Christian families were taken out of the castle of Trabzon. The riches were sent to Istanbul. Others were settled in the neighboring called Meydani Sarki (Dogu meydani - Belediye meydani), Arafilboyu and Yenicuma. Suleyman the Magnificent came back to Istanbul, and Trabzon became a “Sancak” (outpost) which was later bounded to the Anatolian state.
In 1489 the son of Sultan Beyazid, Sultan Selim Yavuz, became the governor of Trabzon and came to Trabzon with his mother Gulbahar Hatun (Ayse). He himself gathered the intellectuals in Trabzon for his first born child Suleyman the Magnificent in 1494. Then due to the threat of the ShiisAmasya. In the end he pressed of Shah Ismail’s forces with his troops formed by the citizens of Trabzon. In 1508 he overcame Shah’s big army corps and drove them out of his borders. He was going to go further but returned on demand of the Sultan. developing in Persia, he had city-walls constructed around Trabzon. But he could not convince the political danger of the Persian ruler who was pretending to be a religious ruler to his father and elder brother, the governor of
Yavuz Sultan Selim was acting as a monarch and using the emperors rights. He himself attacked Georgia and owing to his heroic acts and successes he was named “Yavuz” (brave). Meanwhile his son Suleyman (Kanuni) was at the age of 15 and took over the governance of Kefe. Yavuz Sultan Selim went to Kefe by the sea with his army formed by the citizens of Trabzon and attacked Caucasia without permission; and not obeying the orders, he wanted to have a governor’s post in Rumeli in order to be near Istanbul. As he couldn’t get what he wanted, he attacked Edirne via Rumeli and was defeated by his father’s (Sultan Beyazid) army and escaped to Crimea. In 1512 Sehzade Ahmet, during his father’s lifetime, was called to Istanbul to become the ruler. But this time janissaries rebelled and he went back. Upon this, Yavuz Sultan Selim was called and became the ruler. Yavuz was interested in sports and science. During his governance he used the area called “Atapark” as a play ground; he shot arrows and organized competitions of bowshots for young Trabzon citizens.
A beautiful mausoleum was built over his mother Ayse (Gulbahar), the daughter of Dulkavidli ruler Aleaddevler, who died in 1505. Haci Kasim Fountain dating 1409 and Seydi Haci Mehmet fountain dating 1500 on Kavak Meydan street survived from the time of Yavuz Sultan Selim’s governance. Hatuniye Mosque which was built for his mother, was completed in 1514. It is one of the greatest master pieces of the Ottomans in Trabzon.
After Yavuz Sultan Selim left in 1522, Iskender Pasha became the governor of Trabzon. In 1514 Erzincan became a state and Trabzon was bounded to it. Iskender pasha became the governor of Trabzon for four times. During his governance he built Iskender Pasha fountain at Belediye Square in 1519, another fountain at Hoca Halil Mahalle, Asagi Hisar in 1523 and a mosque at Belediye Square and a medrese (which isn’t there anymore) in his name in 1529. Iskender Pasha, died in 1533, was buried within the mosque built by him. His tomb can be seen there.
During Kanuni Sultan Suleyman’s reign (1520-1566) the Anatolian state was divided into two; Rumeli (Thrace) and Anatolia. The capital of the new Anatolian state was Trabzon and the subdivisions called Kemah, Bayburt, Malatya, Kahta, Divrigi and Darende were joined to Trabzon. But in 1534 the administrative system changed again; Erzurum became the capital and Trabzon was joined to Erzurum. In 1514 the city-walls of Trabzon were restored by Sirvanzade Mirza Mehmet Bey.
In the middle of the 16th century it is known that the Islamic religion hasn’t penetrated into some regions of Trabzon. A man named Sheik Osman Efendi from Maras, who came by way of Bayburt, reinforced the Islamic religion. His tomb is in Caykara now.
In 1563 Governor of Trabzon Kasim bey (Kasim Celebi) built Pazarkapi Mosque. In 1564 Batum was captured. In 1566 Suleyman the MagnificentSuleyman the Magnificent used to wear clothes from Trabzon linen and also made the royals and janissaries wear it. died. It was seen that the suit array which was taken off his back was even from a material woven in Trabzon.
In 1578 Erdogdu Bey, governor of Trabzon, changed the small mosque by adding a minaret to it at Tekfur Cayi region. Therefore the mosque and the neighboring were named Erdogdu. In 1582 the Trabzon - Batum state, whose capital was Trabzon, was established; and St. Sophia church was changed into a mosque without laying a hand on any of its frescoes.
In the 17th century the Russian Don Cossacks began to plunder the coasts of Black sea. Omer Pasha, the governor of Trabzon then, organized a fleet of boats named ‘menkisle’ with 5 crew each and stopped these attacks.
Meanwhile riots in Anatolia had begun. One of the notables of Celali and Akkoyunlu Turkmenians, Ali Pasha from Murathan, became the governor of Trabzon. In 1608 while Celalis were being despoiled, Murat Pasha was called to Bayburt and killed there.
In 1732, a famous traveler and writer Katip Celebi (Haci Halife)’s book titled “Cihannuma” was published. There is some information about Trabzon in this book. In 1640 Evliya Celebi came to Trabzon and gave a great deal of information about the city in his book titled “Seyahatname”. He describes the citizens of Trabzon as cleanly dressed, educated people fond of good talkers, fond of reading and writing poems. He divides the people into seven classes as: Notables and Nobles with Sableskin coats, scholars in special array, Merchants wearing Ferace made of broadcloth, Kontos and Dolman, Craftsmen who can mint and can masterly make all kinds of gold and silverware and weapons, Sea conveyors and Merchants with Shalwvar and Dolman made of broadcloth, i.e. the sailors, gardeners and fishermen.
Vizier Arnavut Mehmet Pasha who came to Trabzon as a governor in 1644 was dismissed from his position after a short time and went to Kopru district, the home-town of his wife, and settled there. Therefore he was called Koprulu Mehmet Pasha. He became the first member of Koprulu Family, and the name of Kopru was changed to Vezir Kopru.
In the middle of the 17th century the raids of Kazak pirates to Trabzon shore turned into Russian attacks. That’s why the Trabzon governors were generally in charge of guarding the castles on the border as an additional duty. Trabzon was often left without a governor and was governed by Aghas instead of governors. Public order began to deteriorate and governors became unable to render good service in the city.
During the period of Biyikli Mustafa Pasha, governor of Trabzon in 1727, the conditions improved a little and Zeytinlik medrese which was the third great foundation of education of Trabzon was built. But public order in the city deteriorated again because in 1828 war with Iran broke out and this time the governors, in order to participate in the Iranian war, were handing Trabzon over to their assistants called Mutessellim. By then public order had deteriorated entirely, Laz and Cepni Aghas were attacking each other. In 1741 Omer Pasha established peace again and had the Trabzon and Gorele castles repaired, opened the Harsit road and built a nice palace in Guzelhisar for himself. He was confronted with the wrath of the Sultan and his palace was burned and he was executed.
Hekimoglu Ali Pasha, one of the famous grand Viziers and the governor of Trabzon in 1749, improved the public order by his skillful administration. He repaired the Karabas Mosque. In 1754 he was appointed as the Grand Vizier for the second time and was taken from Trabzon. In 1762 Mustafa Efendi, from Saraczade Family, founded the Saraczade Library. During that time Trabzon was progressing in commerce and hazel-nut was being exported from Trabzon to Russia. But public order was deteriorating terribly. Canikli Haci Ali Pasha who was sent to Trabzon as a governor in 1772 improved the public order, but this time governorship inherited by this family from then on. The candidate governors began struggling for seat. Then Sari Abdullah Pasha, who was brought up as the slave of Canikli Family, was sent to Trabzon as a governor. In 1788 the misleading trends in the administration of Trabzon had become worse. The task of killing Sari Abdullah Pasha was given to Kuguzade Suleyman Pasha, the new governor of Trabzon in 1791. He immediately carried out his duty, trapped and killed him and buried him in the cemetery near the Tavanli Mosque.
At the beginning of the 19th century the Russian attacks to Trabzon shores strengthened. The Russians captured the Azak, Anapa and Fas Castles on the border and in 1810 they landed on the Sargana shores of Akcaabat. Sakaoglu Mahmut Agha, the chief of Akçaabat, taking men along with him, and his wife Uluvve Hatun taking women as followers, opposed the enemy. By the participation of the people who came from the surroundings and the Trabzon governor Carhaci Ali Pasha himself, fierce battles started. They drove the enemy to the sea.
Meanwhile public order was in a disorderly state in Trabzon Region. The Aghas and the notables didn’t take the government into consideration. As Haznedarzade Suleyman Pasha who was appointed to Trabzon as a governor, with a rank of Vizier, to improve the public order, was in a disagreement with Hopali Tuzcuoglu Memis Agha, the chief of Rize. Tuzcuoglu Memis Agha attacked Trabzon with all the notables and Aghas of the region and drove his head officer Cecenzade Hasan Agha out of the city. He dominated the Trabzon Castle and he acted as the head of the state for exactly four months. When the State forces came, he escaped and went to Of. He was captured and decapitated in 1817. But the social tension caused by the Aghas went on.
While Hazinedarzade Osman Pasha, who was sent to Trabzon as a governor in 1827, was taking protective precautions in his region against the Russian attacks, he was also trying to prevent the frequent revolts of the Aghas. In 1834 he completely stopped the revolts and improved the public order. He made the notables of Tuzcuoglu Family migrate to Ruscuk and Varna regions.
As a result of the improving public order, the commercial life and public works became active. Charles Texier who came to Trabzon in 1832, gave many information about Trabzon in his famous book named Asia Minor and mentioned Trabzon as the transit center of the East. As steam ships began their tours on the Black Sea in 1836, the commercial transportation in the Mediterranean directed to the Black Sea. In 1837 the Fatih mosque in Ortahisar was repaired and one of its rooms was constructed as a Sadirvan (fountain for the ablutions before prayers). The Çarsi Mosque was built in 1841. In 1842 the Fetvahane Library was constructed. Abdullah Pasha became the governor in place of his brother Hazinedarzade Osman Pasha who died in 1842, and contributed a lot to the public works of Trabzon.
The Hatuniye and Fatih Libraries were constructed in 1844, Kalcioglu Memis Agha Fountain was built in 1845. In 1848 Ismail Pasha, the Minister of public works, came to Trabzon with a group of specialists to examine the project about Trabzon - Baghdad Road in 1849. The Abdullah Pasha Fountain was put into service. In 1850 the Saraczade, in 1851 the Pazarkapi Medreses were founded, the Imaret Library was widened. Trabzon became the center of an intensive transit transportation in the middle of the 19th century; The trade in Trabzon Harbor started to expand continuously. Trabzon was the center of one of the 39 provinces of the Ottoman Empire. Sebinkarahisar, Samsun Batum and Maradit were counties under the rule of Trabzon.
There was a regular sea transportation between Trabzon and Istanbul every fifteen days and it was necessary to have a well constructed highway to go to the East. For this reason, Ismail Pasa, Minister of Public works, came to Trabzon in 1850 and the construction of Erzurum - Trabzon highway began.
Primary and secondary Schools teaching with new methods were put into service in 1852. The marsh of Batum was dried, clean water was brought, and the Aziziye Mosque was built in 1862. Trabzon became a civilized and well-constructed city. In 1863 the St. Sophia (Ayasofya) Mosque was restored, the pictures in the mosque were covered with plaster; stairs were built for the bell-tower which was used as a minaret.
The provinces were abolished and the big cities were organized in the second half of the 19th century. Trabzon became a big city too, and also three provinces were added to Trabzon: 1) Central province of Trabzon (Giresun, Bulancak, Tirebolu, Of, Rize). 2) Province of Canik (Samsun, Unye, Bafra). 3) Province of Lazistan (Batum, Arhavi). 4) Province of Gumushane (Torul, Kelkit).
Trabzon was a lively and prosperous city. An American school was put into service in 1865 and an official printing office was established in 1866. Samsun, which was a subdivision of Trabzon, was completely burnt down and rebuilt on a modern new plan designed by the local government in Trabzon. In 1870 a formal newspaper named Trabzon and the first year book of Trabzon were printed.
The sea transportation in Trabzon increased considerably in those days and four ship companies arranged tours to Istanbul once a week. Two foreigners ran a beautiful hotel in the city. The shopping district was very rich and lively, goods from all over the world were sold there. The square called “Gavur Meydani” (The Municipal square) used to be a place where people took walks. This centre reminded people of Champs Elysses in Paris. The Kavak Square was the centre of sports and people on horses used to play jeree (Javelin) there. The population of the city was about forty thousand. There were some beautiful houses in the city and there was a road to the west across the city. While some changes in the administrative body were taking place in 1870, the Sebin Karahisar subdivision was separated from Trabzon and became a separate province, and Giresun became a county of this province. On the other hand in 1872, the towns of Surmene, Vakfikebir, Gorele and Aybasti were joined together as county of Trabzon.
Trabzon was developing day after day. In 1875 a French school was put into service in the city. There appeared a great progress in the commercial life and hazelnuts were exported to Belgium as well. When the Russian - Turkish war started in 1876, Trabzon was used as a supply centre of the army.
In 1883 a Persian school was put into service. Akcaabat which was known for its tobacco, Yomra famous for its fruit and therapeutically waters, Macka as the centre of making quilts, covering copper goods with tin and carving stones, were towns under the rule of central Trabzon. From the big harbor called Vakfikebir, butter, corn and beans were exported. Surmene was a natural harbor and the people living there were mostly fishermen. There lived a lot of scientists and artists in Of. In those days there was a constitutional government ruling the Ottoman Empire. When the first elections took place, Trabzon sent three deputies to the legislature. In accordance with the Ayastefanos agreement, Batum remained under the Russian rule and Rize became the capital of Lazistan in 1877. Mehmet Ziver Efendi, who wrote many poems about the fish (hamsi, like sardines) died in 1880. Leyla Hanim, whose poems were widespread among women was the wife of Sirri Pasha, the governor of Trabzon then. Hamamizade Ihsan, an inhabitant of Trabzon, who has acquired a very distinctive place in the Turkish literature, was born in 1884.
Meanwhile Trabzon’s nearest county Akcaabat has become a sub-district in 1887. Of, Surmene, Akcaabat, Vakfikebir, Gorele, Tirebolu, Giresun, Ordu, Yomra, Macka, Sarli and Tonya were sub-districts of Trabzon by the end of the 19th century. Trabzon continued to be the starting point of international road to Iran and an important seaport town of Eastern Anatolia. There were eight ship agencies, one of which was local. There were nine consulates in Trabzon. In brief, it was a big and rich city. The Armenians in Trabzon started a riot but it was soon overcome in 1895.
When the Second Constitutiol Regime was declared in 1908, seven deputies were elected from Trabzon for the parliament. In the 1912 elections seven parliamenters were elected again. During that period the administration of the Ottoman State had become weaker because of the struggle of rivalry of political parties. Italians took advantage of this instability and occupied the twelve islands in the Aegean and also landed at Tripoli (Trablusgarb) which was under the sovereignty of the Ottoman Empire. The Balkan war broke out; the government declared a state of emergency and wanted the aid of all provinces. People of Trabzon and its districts tried very hard to procure money for the government.
The Ottoman Government frequently changed hands and the power of the state weakened because of the struggle and rivalry of political parties. Bekir Sami Bey, who was a governor in Trabzon twice in 1911 and 1912, was also the foreign Minister of the Ankara Government during the years of the Turkish National War of Liberation. The governorship of Suleyman Nazif Bey, who was a famous Turkish poet, didn’t even last a year. The governorship of Professor Mehmet Ali Avni, who was famous with his scientific and artistic works, lasted shorter than Suleyman Nazif’s. Samih Rifats’s governance lasted only a month. In 1913, as the activities of Armenian Committees and the Second Balkan War started, Cemal Azmi Bey became the governor of Trabzon.
When World War I broke out in 1914, the Istanbul Government couldn’t keep its impartiality and was obliged to enter the war on the side of Germany. Disastrous days for Trabzon began. The city was bombed by 23 Russian warship on 1st November 1914. Bomb-shells followed one another, and a large group of young people from Trabzon died in the battle of Sarikamis in the east of Turkey. As the bombardments were continuing, Russian land troops passed the shore border on 24th February 1916 and occupied Rize and came to the border of Of. The people of Of and its sub-districts joined the 2500 soldiers under the command of Gurcu Avni Pasa, the commander of that region. They stopped the Russian Army on the border of Trabzon, in spite of the good state of the Russian army. But the Russians occupied Of on 5th March 1916 and Trabzon on 18th April 1916 anyway. Trabzon was saved from the enemy invasion on 24th February 1918 and was joined to the Motherland.
Some people say that the name of the city comes from the Greek “Trapezous”; “trapezion” is the table, and the ending “-ous” means the place which possesses/has something (eg. Kerasous; the place that has cherries, todays Giresun). Trapezous indicates the flat hilltop in the old city, which is surrounded by the medieval wall.
Sumela Monastery (Macka)
Situated in a very beautiful and natural setting, Sumela Monastery built in the 14th century is nestled into the side of rocks in a famous valley in Maçka, only 50 kilometers away from Trabzon. The setting is 1200 meters above the sea level.
Two Greek monks, Barnaby and Sophronios started the original building. The 7th century Icon apparently painted by an anonymous Trabizond (Trabzon) artist became the symbol of the monastery.
Some say that the name “Sumela” comes from the Greek word “melas” which means “black” and it refers to the characteristic dark color of this icon. But others say that “Melas is the name of the mountain above the monastery, “sou” in the Pontian Greek dialect means “at the”, so Sumela (Sou + Mela) means “at the Melas (mountain).
The Church of the Assumption of the Virgin and the large monastery complex had 5 floors and a total of 72 rooms. The upper floor was used as a gallery and a lookout post. The whole building was full of frescoes and the wall paintings. The large part of the building was hewn out of the rock. It stands in front of a beautiful valley scenery and sharp rocky mountains behind.
St. Sophia Museum
THE TURQUOISE RIVIERAAntalya is a holiday paradise in a lovely natural setting. The pine-clad Toros Mountains sweep down to the crystal clear sea forming an irregular coastline of rocky headlands and secluded caves.The region is bathed in sunshine for 300 days of the year and is thus perfect for a lazy holiday of sunbathing and swimming, or for sporting activities such as windsurfing, water-skiing, sailing, mountain climbing, hunting and spelunking. Those who vacation in March and April can ski in the mornings and in the afternoons swim in the warm waters of the Mediterranean. The coast is lined with magnificent beaches lapped by clear blue waters, and surrounded by pine forests, olive and citrus groves, palm trees, avocado trees and banana plantations. Important historical sites await discovery in these marvellous surroundings, which are home to a rich variety of plant and wildlife, and which are now protected as a conservation area. Holidaymakers will find everything here they can imagine for a perfect vocation. The Turkish Riviera is the tourist capitol of Turkey. With its wide ranging accomadition, from tourist class to deluxe hotels, the hospitable people of Antalya are always ready to welcome you.AntalyaThe principal holiday resort of the Mediterranean is the lovely region of Antalya with a majestic coastline of beaches and rocky coves where the towering Toros (Taurus) Mountains provide a magnificent backdrop. Antalya is an attractive city, at an altitude of only about 50 metres, with shady, palm-lined boulevards, a prize-winning marina and a picturesque old quarter called Kaleici which has narrow, winding streets and quaint, old, wooden houses next to the city walls. Since its founding in the 2nd century B.C. by Attalus II, a king of Pergamon who named the city Attaleia after himself, it has had a continuous history. The Romans, Byzantines and Seljuks occupied the city before it came under Ottoman rule.PLACES OF INTEREST IN THE CITYMUSEUMSArchaeology Museum: With remains from the Paleolithic Age to Ottoman Times, this is one of the most important museums in the Mediterranean region. (Open daily except Mondays.) Ataturk Museum: This museum displays objects used by Ataturk, founder of the Turkish Republic. (Open daily except Mondays.) Suna-Inan Kirac Museum: This museum is connected to the Research Institute for Mediterranean Cultures. HISTORICAL SITES AND MONUMENTSAncient City Walls: Since its founding in the 2nd century B.C., Antalya has had a continuous history. The ancient walls flank the city and other sections of the walls are still standing near the marina. Clock Tower: Situated by the ancient city walls, it was part of the old city fortifications in the Kalekapisi Square. Hadrian's Gate: The beautifully decorated, three-arched gate was built in honour of Hadrian when he visited the city in 130 A.D. Hidirlik Tower: This tower was probably first built as a lighthouse in the 2nd century. Karatay Medrese: This theological school dates from the 13th century and is situated in the Kaleici neighbourhood. The stone carvings on the portal and mihrap (prayer niche) are fine examples of Seljuk art. Ataturk Monuments: One of the largest and most interesting monuments is located in Cumhuriyet Square within the city centre. The other one is in the center of Vatan Square. Kaleici Quarter: This quaint area surrounding the Kaleici Marina is full of small hotels, pensions and restaurants as well as restored houses that all help to create the atmosphere for which the city is famous.MOSQUESYivli Minareli Complex: It was built by the Seljuk Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat in the 13th century. Its elegant, fluted minaret has become the symbol of the city. Kesik Minaret Complex: A memorial to the mixed history of Antalya is the Kesik (truncated) Minaret Mosque. Formerly a church, it has seen Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk and Ottoman modifications. Tekeli Mehmet Fasa Mosque: An important 18th-century Ottoman mosque situated in the Kalekapisi district, inside the city walls. Murat Pasa Mosque: The unique tile design of this mosque built in the 16th century is of particular i
nterest.Iskele Mosque: This attractive little mosque built in the 19th century is situated beside the marina. It was constructed of set stone and built on four pillars over a spring.PARKS AND NATURAL BEAUTYKaraalioglu: A magnificient view of Antalya awaits visitors here with colourful exotic flowers, vivid in the sunlight with the shimmering water of the bay and the mountains in the background.Mermerli: Situated just above the marina at the southeast comer of the Kaleici district, this park is the best place for relaxation with a wonderful view of the mountains.Ataturk: This park also has a wonderful view of the city, displaying gorgeous flowers and an incredible scenic view. Genclik: Situated on a peninsula, en route to Lara Beach you can see Duden Waterfalls from this vantage point, a most breathtaking view of the falls as they cascade into the sea. Yavuz Ozcan: A peaceful respite within Antalya's city centre. This park is delightful with its pools, miniature waterfalls and beautiful fountains which display colourful lights in the evening. Recep Bilgin: This park, located not far from Yavuz Ozcan Park is situated within the city center and is worth a visit to see its architectural design.Konyaalti Woods: Situated behind Konyaalti Beach, this park provides a nice, shady, cool place for rest and relaxation outside the city. The Upper Duden Waterfalls, 14 km to the northeast, are unique because you can walk behind the cascade. On the way to Lara Beach, 10 km to the east, are the Lower Duden Waterfalls that plunge straight into the sea. The nearby rest area offers an excellent view of the falls but the view is most spectacular from the sea. Kursunlu Waterfalls and Nilufer Lake, both 18 km from Antalya, are two more places where nature displays her beauty.BEACHESLara: This sandy beach is about 12 km to the east of Antalya city centre. Adalar: Situated on the lower side of Karaalioglu Park, there are steps leading down to the beach which consists of little rocky islands. Beach facilities are available.Mermerli: Situated near the Antalya Marina in the Kaleici district and located adjacent to Mermerli Park.Konyaalti: This long, pebbled beach lies west of Antalya, where a breathtaking view of the mountains can clearly be seen.Topcam: This beautiful beach is situated at Olympos National Park, across from Sican Island. ART, CULTURE AND ENTERTAINMENTAntalya is full of exciting cultural activities and entertainment possibilities. The annual Altin Portakal Film and Art Festival held in the autumn and Antalya's annual jewellery festival are just a few of the many events available. Antalya's Fine Arts Gallery offers performance exhibitions. The Aspendos Open Air Theater is a wonderful place to see international opera, ballet and symphony orchestras. Every year special classical performances are held here as well as performances by the most popular Turkish enter- tainers. For evening entertainment, Antalya's Kaleici Marina and Leisure Centre is the best place in the city with many beautiful restaurants, cafes, bars, parks and discos in this area. Near Setur Marina, dining is available on floating seafood restaurants in an unpretentious and nautical atmosphere. For a pano- ramic view of the area there is a holiday complex and revolving restaurant, 15 km from Antalya, on top of Tunektepe Hill. One can also have a good time at the two water recreation parks Aqualand and Aquapark near the Culture Park.A Culture, Exhibition and Congress Center was opened in 1996 in the Konyaalti Quarter. The Congress hall itself is in a glass pyramid.SHOPPINGSome of the best shopping may be found in the Kaleici district, near the city walls. Meander down through the side streets in the old quarters where it's possible to find anything your heart desires. Old Turkish kilims, original gold jewellery, leather products, natural cotton clothing, handmade wood items as well as traditional Turkish handicrafts abound here. Ataturk, Cumhuriyet and Isiklar are the three other shopping avenues. Don't miss the colourful open air vegetable and fruit market, the place for food shopping as well as a great place for capturing that perfect picture.MARINASThe Turban Kaleici Marina has won several awards and is considered one of the loveliest marinas in Turkey with an extraordinary blend of ancient and modern environmental design together with numerous shrubs, trees and exotic flowers. A peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle is Setur Marina located 10 km west of Antalya, offering all types of yacht services. GOLFGolf lovers will not want to miss The National Golf Club in Belek which is one of the top modem holiday centers in Turkey. Belek is located 40 km west of Antalya and offers a championship 18-hole golf course as well as a 9-hole course and an academic course. This golf area is among shady pine forests not far from some of the nicest beach areas in the region.DAILY EXCURSIONSWhat could be more appealing than dreamlike landscapes, grand mountains , the magnificent colours of the sea and a rich variety of flora. Add to that the lively holiday life with the quiet of ancient ruins and you have a perfect vacaion. From Antalya there are many possibilities for day trips. The Bey Daglan (Olympos) National Park, Topcam Beach and camp grounds, at the north end of the park, are perfect for a visit, and for enjoying a view of the strangely perpendiculer Sican island the mountain resort of Saklikent, 50 km from Antalya, is an ideal winter sports center on the northern slopes of Bakirli Mountain at an altitude of 1750-1900 m. March and April are the months when you can ski in the morning, then in the afternoon go to the marina for a lunch of fresh fish, and end the day sunbathing on the beach, swimming or windsurfing- On the eastern side of Can Mountain, 30 km from Antalya, is Karain Cave, dating from the Paleolithic Age and the site of the oldest settlement in Turkey. The cave has a single entrance, lit by the morning sun, then moves into three large interconnecting chambers. The little museum at the entrance houses some of the remains, but most of the finds from mis cave are scat- tered in various museums throughout Turkey. In Duzlercami Park, 20 km north of Antalya, the deer and mountain goats are protected species. The very interesting 115-meter-deep Guver Canyon is 3 km south of the park.TERMESSOSGulluk Dagi National Park is 34 km to the northwest of Antalya. The ancient city of Tennessos, set inside the park, is located on a high plateau at 1,050 meters on the west side of Gulluk Mountain (Solymos). Explore this ancient city and wander among ruins in a beautiful natural setting. At the park entrance is a nature and wildlife museum.THE COAST WEST OF ANTALYAThis is a land of exciting possibilities and quiet nature that has some of the top holiday resorts. Whether a quiet comer or lively entertainment, the choice is yours. Each bay and cove has its own special features. Discover archaeological sites, dive into blue waters and thoroughly relax on-this Coast of Light. Rising up immediately behind the coast are the mountains of the Bey Mountain Range, which, along with the coast from Konyaalh Beach to Kirlangic Peninsula, from the National Park named for the range. This area of mountains and coast makes up the beautiful, ancient Lycian Peninsula. The history of the area can be traced back to the Neolithic Age from the settlements at Beldibi, and to the Bronze Age from the finds at Semahoyiik on Elmali Plateau where Phrygian tumuli can still be seen.KEMERThe 42 kilometres of road from Antalya to Kemer go through spectacular mountain scenery. This resort town has been designed to blend in with the scenery and offers the perfect environment for a wonderful holiday. There is a fully equipped marina and the unspoilt bays and beaches south of the town are a yachtsman's dream. Shoppers will delight at the wonderful range of high quality souvenirs that can be bought here. There is a beach promenade on the northern part of the marina which has steps leading down from its cafes and shops directly to the beach. Kemer Beach is rated Blue Flag (meaning "clean beach") by the European Union. In the Yoruk (Nomad) Theme Park, overlooking a lovely bay, you can watch traditional craftsmen at work. Along the adjoining bay is a charming and delightful spot with sports and entertainment.facilities discreetly hidden in pine groves. The colorful Kemer Carnival is held in the spring. Also in the spring are the yacht races between Kemer and Gime (in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus). Kiziltepe, Goynuk (Blue Flag) and Beldibi (Blue Flag), north of Kemer, and Camyuva and Tekirova (Blue Flag), to the south, are tourist centres that provide for a variety of activities and holiday villages all built to blend into the forest that encircles them. Of all the beautiful places in the Kemer region these areas are the favourites. PHASELISSituated at the foot of Mt. Tahtali (Olympos), 15 km south of Kemer, the three harbours of Phaselis were the reason for its historical role as a commercial centre. The view of Mt. Tahtali from the south harbour is particularly spectacular. The sheltered, pebbled and sandy beaches around the bays are delightful and the waters here are calm and safe for children and young swimmers. The ruins of aqueducts, agoras, baths, a theater, Hadrian's Gate, and an acropolis underline the city's historical importance.OLYMPOSThis ancient city is situated on the southern side of Mt. Tahtali. Whether coming by sea or land do not miss the Olympos Valley shaded with oleander and laurel shrubs and the refreshing quiet pools of flowing water. The design of the mosaics in the Olympos bath is enhanced by the play of light while a temple gate and a theatre are of interest along with the other walls and towers around the bay which date from the Middle Ages. North of Olympos, up from Cirah Beach, is Yanartas (at a height of 300 m) where, according to mythology the rire breathing monster, Chimaera, was slain by the Lycian hero Bellerophon who was mounted on his winged horse, Pegasus. Nearby you can see remains from the Byzantines who attached religious importance to the area. Tranquil waters and sandy beaches line the Bay of Cavus, situated south of Olympos. This enchanting bay is yours for an unforgettable experience of water-skiing on glassy water, for discovering the colorful marine life in waters clear enough to see to the bottom, or exploring the incredible sea caves on the northern shore.FINIKEThis town surrounded by citrus trees and gardens is a port of entry into Turkey lying to the west of Olympos. A sandy beach stretches to the east, and to the west are rocky bays and coves. Limyra, an ancient city of Lycia, is 10 km from Finike via Turuncova. On the south side of the acropolis is the Pericles Mausoleum Monument. Decorated with caryatids of the 4th century B.C., it is not to be missed. City walls and a theatre are also of interest.ARIKANDAAlong a mountain road of unsurpassed beauty, about 32 km from Finike, is the rum off for the Lycian city of Arikanda. Set high on the mountain side with plenty of fresh air and cool water, it is no wonder such a place was chosen. In the extensive ruins, the agora, theater, stadium, bouleuterion and water system are of interest. Memorial graves are set in the hillside while an ancient bath and gymnasium over- look one of the most beautiful valleys.DEMRE (KALE)This site is the ancient Myra (25 km to the west of Finike) and it is best known for St, Nicholas, the bishop of this Mediterranean city during the 4th century, who died here in 342 A.D. Every year in December the St. Nicholas Commemoration Ceremony is held, attracting many tourists who spend their Christmas holiday on the sunny coast of ancient Lycia. In ancient Myra, many rock tombs overlook the splendid theater. Dalyanagzi, the ancient harbor of Andriace, 6 km west of Demre, is perfect for swimming as well as relaxing on the sandy beaches.KEKOVAAn hour from Dalyanagzi by sea, especially enjoyable for yachtsmen, is the island of Kekova, "home of the sun." Kekova is also the name for this entire area of picturesque islands, numerous bays and ancient cities. These bays provide natural harbours in all seasons and here, too, nature is joined by history to cre- ate a harmony rarely seen, Geological shifting along the northern shore of Kekova Island (Apollonia) over the years has caused some of the ancient structures to sink under the clear water, creating a sunken city. A bird's eye view of the whole scene of bays, inlets, islands, and yachts sailing peacefully on the smooth water can be seen from the Kalekoy Castle (Simena). The colors of a Van Gogh painting and orange sunsets, together with starry, starry nights, peace and tranquility, playful dolphins, mythological mysteries, and the sparkling sea - Kekova provides all this and more.KASWest out of Kekova is a lovely spot surrounded by mountains. When you feel like exploring further, the choice of coves, bays and beaches is almost endless. The local fishermen are very friendly and are happy to run a water-taxi service to take you to a favourite bay along the coast. The area around Kas has remained completely unspoiled, and for people who enjoy swimming it is ideal. Kas is perfect for the diver who wants to explore the underwater world.Visiting the theatre and the Lycian tombs, the largest of which is in the centre of town, will help you relive the days when it was called Antiphellos. And wandering through the streets, you can stop to examine the souvenir shops specializing in Turkish handicrafts, various leather goods, copper and silver items, cotton clothing, and the inevitable handmade carpets. After your shopping is done, stroll along the flower-lined Ak^pniz Promenade, relaxing under the shade of palm trees and enjoying the scenery. Kas also offers just the kind of night life you might want - bars and restaurants are plentiful, and whatever pleases you most, you will find it there. Kas is the perfect spot from which to take a refreshing trek into the mountains. Walk through forested hills, visit remote villages and ancient remains while climbing to the high ridges for a superb view. For the energetic, there is the option of climbing the highest peak in the area, Mt- Kizlarsivrisi (3086 m) and the second highest, Mt. Akdag (3030 m). Kaputas, 18 km from Kas along the scenic Kalkan Road, has a beautiful beach with the Turquoise Grotto ate one end.KALKANKalkan is 7 km west of Kaputas. It is a lovely, small town with an abundance of charm, perched on a hillop overlooking a tiny bay. It has quaint, traditional, white-washed houses with shuttered windows, and balconies with garlands of flowers hanging to the streets below. Kalkan is the ultimate for a peaceful holiday. Narrow, winding streets lined with souvenir shops lead down to the charming marina. Every morning boats are busy taking tourists to one of the nearby beaches or small bays. As the sun sets, Kalkan style is to go up to the rooftop terraces for a relaxing drink before dinner taking in the comings and going of the yachts in the bay, the business of the marina and the panoramic view.PATARAA principal harbour of ancient Lycia, Patara can be reached by travelling west out of Kalkan along a winding mountain road, entering the Esen Valley and then, after 8 km, you come to the ancient harbour. According to mythology, Apollo was born here. Historically, it is known to be the birthplace of St. Nicholas. The ruins are numerous and interesting. This is also the place for beach lovers, for it has 22 km of pure white sand which stretches as far as the eye can see, making it a natural choice for sports like sand-surfing. Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches on the Mediterranean, it is ideal for a holiday away from the crowds.KINIK (Xanthos)The ancient Lyrian capital of Xanthos is 18 km north of Patara near the Esen River. The theatre. Harpy Tomb, Nereid Monument, agora, and an inscribed monument are of interest, as are a mixture of ruins from Lycian, Roman and Byzantine times. At the Lycian cultic center of Letoon, 6 km farther, there are three temples dedicated to Leto, Apollo and Artemis, familiar gods of Anatolian mythology.THE COAST EAST OF ANTALYAWide fertile plains stretch parallel to the endless sandy beaches rimmed by the shining sea. Modem tourist facilities dot this coast and the historical sites are well preserved, giving you the option of several activities in a day.PERGEThe Hittites had settlements in this area around 1500 B.C., and St. Paul stopped here on one of his jour- neys during the time when Perge (18 km from Antalya) was an important city of ancient Pamphylia. The stage of the theatre has very nice marble relief work. On the outer wall is a three-sectioned memorial fountain. Some of the reliefs from the city are displayed in the stadium for easy viewing. Other ruins worth mentioning are the handsome city gate flanked by two lofty towers, a long colonnaded street that was once lined with shops and mosaic pavements, a large agora, and buildings that used to house the baths and gymnasium.BELEKGolfers, swimmers, and sun-worshippers will not want to miss this modem holiday center and golf paradise, 40 km from Antalya - the perfect blend of aesthetics and nature on the sea with sandy beaches and shady pine forests.ASPENDOSA photogenic Seljuk bridge crosses the Kopru River from the road to Aspendos, 49 km east of Antalya. The road continues past the Aspendos Jewellery Centre to the ancient city of Aspendos a site which is dominated by the best preserved theater of antiquity with seating for 15.000. The galleries, stage decorations and acoustics all reflect the ability of the architect Zenon. Close to the theatre, basilica and agora lie the remains of an aqueduct, one of the largest in Anatolia. Be sure to visit the Aspendos Jewellery Centre, where jewellery making can be observed at every stage in the large workshop.KOPRULU CANYON NATIONAL PARKNortheast of Antalya on the Side road take the turn off for Tasagil and Beskonak, for the beautiful circular, scenic route that leads to the Koprulu Canyon National Park. The road crisscrosses over the clear, flowing water of the mountain river and passes through virgin forests and over rippling waterfalls. You will want to stop often and give your camera a workout in this picturesque valley. Reaching the park, 92 km from Antalya, you will encounter a valley of wild beauty rich in flora and fauna. The canyon stretches for 14 km along the Kopru River and is 400 metres deep in some places. At the rest area there are fish restaurants offering delicious selections. The Roman Oluk Bridge over the canyon and the Bugrum Bridge over the Kocadere stream were engineering feats in their time. From this park there are two other possible excursions: the ancient city of Selge and the Dedegol Mountains. The highest peak in this mountain range is Dedegol at 2,992 metres. Mountaineers will be unable to resist climbing, exploring and camping in this rugged, scenic spot. Return to Antalya via the other half of the scenic route.ALTINKAYA (SELGE)An important city of ancient Pisidia, Altinkaya is reached from the Koprulu Canyon National Park then, at Oluk Bridge go 12 km to the northwest on a winding mountain road. This ancient route coming from Antalya shows that Selge had direct trade connections. The fairy chimneys seen on the way are typical of this area. This city, at 950 metres, has ruins of city walls, towers, cisterns, a temple to Zeus, an agora, stadium, theater, gymnasium and necropolis. All around the canyon are other historical remains of this once-famous city.MANAVGATThe Manavgat Waterfalls (80 km to the east of Antalya) are not high but the current is very powerful and the water rushes milky-white over the rocks. Near the waterfalls are shady tea gardens, restaurants and souvenir shops, making it a pleasant, cool, rest stop, especially welcome after a day of sightseeing. It is possible to take a delightful boat trip on the Manavgat River and explore this lovely area.SIDESide is one of the best-known classical sites in Turkey. This was an ancient harbour whose name meant "pomegranate" Today, it is a pretty resort town, very popular because of its ancient ruins, two sandy beaches, a variety of shops and plentiful tourist accommo- dation. There are numerous cafes and restaurants with a view uf the sea, and the narrow streets are lined with shops selling typical Turkish handicrafts including handmade leather and magnificent gold jewellery. Discos are just a part of the active night life. The magnificent theatre of the ancient city, built on colonnaded arches, is the largest in the whole area. Next to the theatre is an agora. The creamy-white columns of the Apollo Temple make a striking contrast against the blue sea. The extensive Roman bath, now a museum, houses one of Turkey's finest archaeological collections.The west side of Side also has holiday resorts, including the inviting spots of Kumkoy and Colakli (Kamelya). Here, too, you can enjoy the sun and sea while being close to antiquity. East of Side, tucked in pine forests, are the three holiday resort areas of Sorgun, Titreyen G61 (Blue Flag) and Kizilagac, all popular for their sandy beaches and shimmering sea. The atmosphere is relaxed, accommodation plenti- ful and the activities endless, promising an unforgettable holiday. BUCAKSIHLAR (PAMPHYLIAN SELEUCIA)In Bucaksihlar, 15 km northeast of Side, are the remains (in good condition) of an agora, Roman baths, temples, churches, and a mausoleum. Nestled in the forests, it makes for a lovely and peaceful excursion.ALTINBESIK CAVE NATIONAL PARK One of the most interesting and well-known caves is located in Altmbesik Cave Park 12 km southeast of Aydinkent (Ibradi) and 55 km north of Manavgat. Interesting rock formations within the cave area, as well as travertines and streams make this area especially fascinating. AItinbesik Cave is in the western slopes of the Manavgat River Valley and can be reached via the village of Urunlu, which is an authentic village and a must-see in itself when travelling through this area.ALARAHANThe 13th-century caravanserai, Alarahan was built by the Seljuk sultan Aleaddin Keykubat on the banks of the Alara River, 38 km east of Manavgat. At the top of a nearby hill is the Alara Fortress, from which there is a commanding view of the whole area.ALANYA The large, popular resort center of Alanya is nestled at the foot of a rocky promontory which juts out between two sandy beaches and is crowned by a 13th-century Seljuk fortress which is one of the most magnificent sights on the Mediterranean. The well-preserved, double-walled fortress has 150 towers and stands 220 meters above the sea. Within the outer walls are ruins of mosques, a caravanserai and a covered bazaar; within the inner walls and toward the top are ruins of a cistern and a Byzantine church. In 1220, Sultan Aleaddin Keykubat made Alanya his winter residence and naval base. Near the harbour are the unique, arched boat yards and the large, impressive, octagonal Kizil Kule (Red Tower), both Seljuk structures. Alanya is a beautiful holiday center of modem hotels and motels as well as numerous fish restaurants and cafes near the sea along the sandy beaches. These cafes fringing the harbour have become a popular gathering spot for tourists. From the lovely flower park, the road runs along the coast to the harbor lined with countless boutiques tempting the tourist with handicrafts and souvenirs such as leather wear, jewellery, handbags, and the amusingly painted gourds which are a symbol of the area. Whether taking a photo from the fortress at sunset or strolling along the streets, this is a great place for a holiday. The harbour, the long white beaches, the brilliant turquoise waters, and the foothills of the Toros Mountains sloping down to the sea make Alanya as picturesque as anywhere on the Mediterranean. As if the scenery were not enough, in August a colorful International Folklore Festival is held, adding to the holiday atmosphere. Damlatas Cave is extremely old, with wonderful multicolored stalagmites and stalactites. Nearby is the Archaeology and Ethnography Museum, and Ataturk Park is a good place to rest and enjoy the scenic mountains, fortress and sea. Of special interest are three sea caves (grottoes): Fosforlu Magara, (Phosphorescent Cave) with its phosphorescent rocks; the Kizlar Magarasi, (Girls' Cave) where pirates kept their female captives; and the Asiklar Magarasi (Lovers' Cave). These can only be reached by boat. An alternative to sunny days on the beach is a trip to the Dim Cayi Valley 15 km east of Alanya. Relax in the shade of this marvellous, naturally scenic valley next to a nearby murmuring stream. At Avsallar (incekum), about 25 km west of Alanya, beautiful sandy beaches and holiday complexes can be found, ensuring a vacation full of excitement. If you travel from Alanya to Gazipasa you will find exceptional beaches en route.The best beaches are located in the village Zeytinada where is the last village of the Antalya state.The road to Anamur will also delight you with its mountain scenery and natural beauty. Thirty kilometres east of Alanya is Aytap, the historical harbor city of lotape. Roman ruins, secluded beaches and bays make it a great excursion.HOW TO GET THEREBy plane to Antalya then transfer to holiday areas. By bus service from all over Turkey to holiday areas. By sea-chartered and private yachts; cruises from all over the Mediterranean.CLIMATETypical Mediterranean climate with sunny summers and mild winters. Swimming April - November. Average daytime temperature in summer is 28°C and the water is 27°C.
