Culture of Antalya. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Hıdırlık Kulesi Tower remains one of the most striking monuments of the city. The construction of the tower took place in the 2nd century BC. According to one version, the tower was an important fortification facility designed to protect the port area. Some also believe that it could serve as a beacon, but a part of historians think that Hıdırlık Kulesi is nothing but a tomb of the rulers. The mystery of the ancient tower still keeps bothering the minds of historians and travelers who stroll leisurely along its walls, trying to solve this centuries-old mystery. In Antalya is located one of the most famous museums in the country, the exhibition of which is devoted to priceless archaeological finds. The museum is equipped with more than ten halls, each of which contains collections of unique artifacts.

Previously the majority of the exhibits found here were kept in Yivli Minare, which is also an important object of excursions. The height of the beautiful tower estimates 38 meters. It was built in the 13th century and has perfectly preserved till our days. The beautiful minaret consists of eight half-columns, each of which makes the building look even more spectacular. The building is surrounded by a rich park, which serves as a magnificent background to this ancient monument. Guests of the city should also not forget to visit Hadrian gates, which were built in 130 AD in honor of the great emperor. White columns support three graceful arches. Magnificent plaster cornices have become a really skillful decoration of this grand construction. To please the Emperor, the builders have pictured his coat on the gates. Travellers believe that if you make a wish and pass under the three arcs, your wish will certainly come true.

Fans of natural attractions will be interested in visiting Karaalioglu Park, which is located not far away from the coastline. Here you can stroll through picturesque tangerine groves and admire the beauty of graceful fountains and sculptures. In the evening the park is a favorite place of dates of couples. This is a romantic and a beautiful place that is always full of harmony and peace. An excursion to the Duden Waterfalls will be a no less interesting and exciting activity. There are special observation platforms near the waterfalls, so visitors can easily go behind the flowing veil of sparkling water. These are not all peculiarities of this place as you may enjoy making a visit to a Cave of Wishes. According to one legend, this small cave once was a home to monks who had sought there peace and solitude amongst the natural splendor. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Every large Turkish city is associated with Ataturk – the great reformer can either have a monument erected to him, or have a museum dedicated to him, or have a building or street named after him. You can spot a monument to the cult Turkish personality in Antalya. It is located on the Republic Square. There are many fascinating mosques in the city. One of them is Tekeli Mehmet Paşa Mosque which is the major mosque of the city. This is an excellent example of construction of the 16th – 17th centuries. The mosque has a mind-blowing interior decoration, which is beautifully illuminated through the stained glass windows. Another interesting monument of sacred architecture is called Iskele Mosque. This mosque was built in the 19th century and, although it is small, the special atmosphere that reigns here always makes it a pleasure to come back.

Antalya is an ancient city, and therefore you can spot many ruins here. Some of them are deserving of attention. First of all, the ancient city of Pisidia is worth a special visit as it preserves the prehistoric ruins reminiscent of ancient Rome, which are mingled with the monuments of the times of the Ottoman Empire. Among the buildings you can find the ramparts of the upper cities, administrative and public buildings, as well as residential buildings. In addition, the sight of the ancient ruins in itself gives pleasurable feeling, as if you were transmitted into history. You can enjoy the beautiful views of the sun-drenched Antalya expanses which open up from here.

Another ruin of the ancient city, Perge, is located in the north-east of Antalya. This is a great place to get acquainted with the local culture. The ruins here are very well preserved, such that you can even picture how the people here once lived and what they did. Above all, let us not fail to mention the amphitheater, the stadium and the main streets – these facilities are preserved best among others. All tourists when visiting a place like this are advised to stock up on water, have a hat, and also apply cream with an SPF factor, since there is very little shade here. From this point, you can also see interesting expanses.

In the northwest of the city you can find another ruin, the Termessos. Here you can see the necropolis, and an amphitheater situated at the top, at an altitude of 70 meters. You should definitely climb to it in order to get incredible impressions. It is necessary to follow the same advice as when visiting the previous ruins – to take with you water, a hat and sunscreen. Another significant place is the Antalya ancient fortress, which can be found in the Old City near the Saat Kulesi Clock Tower. This monumental building immediately catches the eye, and you will certainly not be able to bypass it.