AGEAN REGION

Turkey's Aegean shores are among the loveliest landscapes in the country. The magnificent coastline, lapped by the clear waters of the Aegean Sea , abounds in vast and pristine beaches surrounded by olive groves, rocky crags and pine woods. Dotted with idyllic fishing harbours, popular   holiday villages and the remains of   ancient civilizations attesting to the inheritance of  more than 5,000 years of history, culture and mythology, this region. offers a holiday with something for everyone - nature lovers, sun worshippers, photographers, sports-enthusiasts, sailors and archaeologists. Along the whole length of the coast, accommodations to suit every taste and price range can be found.

İZMİR

Known in Turkish as "Beautiful Izmir", the city lies at the head of a long and narrow gulf furrowed by ships and yachts. The climate is mild and in the summer the constant and refreshing sea breezes temper the sun's heat. Behind the palm lined promenades and avenues which follow the shoreline, the city, in horizontal terraces, gently ascends the slopes of the surrounding mountains. The third largest city in Turkey , Izmir 's port is second only to Istanbul 's. A cosmopolitan and lively city all year round, during the International Arts Festival (June/July) and the International Fair (August/Sept), Izmir bursts with an added vibrancy.

The original city was established in the third millennium B.C. (at present day Bayrakli), and at that time shared, with Troy , the most advanced culture in Western Anatolia . By 1500 B.C. it had fallen under the influence of Central Anatolia 's Hittite Empire. In the first millennium B.C. Izmir , then known as Smyrna , ranked as one of the important cities of the lonian Federation; during this period - one of the city's most brilliant - it is believed that Homer resided here. The Lydian conquest of the city, around 600 B.C., brought this period to an end, and Izmir remained little more than a village throughout the Lydian and the subsequent 6th century B.C. Persian rule. In the fourth century B.C. a new city was built at the instigation of Alexander the Great on the slopes of Mt. Pagos (Kadifekale). Izmir 's Roman period, from the first century B.C., gave birth to its second great era. Byzantine rule followed in the fourth century and lasted until the Selcuk conquest in the 11th century. In 1415, under Sultan Mehmet Çelebi; Izmir became part of the Ottoman Empire .

Places of Interest

Museums

The Archaeological Museum, near Konak Square , houses a superb collection of antiquities including the statues of Poseidon and Demeter which, in ancient times, stood in the Agora. Neighbouring the Archaeology Museum , the collection in the Ethnography Museum contains folkloric artifacts, which includes a fine collection of Bergama and Gördes carpets, traditional costumes and camel bridles.

Situated on Atatürk Caddesi, in an old Izmir house used by the founder of the Turkish Republic , the Atatürk Museum exhibits photographs of the leader as well as some of his personal effects.

The Fine Arts Museum, located in Konak, displays the works of famous Turkish painters.

The Selçuk Yasar Art Museum is a private museum on Cumhuriyet Bulvarý with a collection of 20th-century Turkish art. The Natural History Museum in Bornova attracts as a natural reserve of the Aegean Region landscapes' historical preservation.

The Ödemis Archaeological Museum is about 60 km east of Izmir and displays regional artifacts. The Tire Archaeological Museum is about 50 km east of Izmir .

Historical Sites and Monuments

The excavations at Bayrakli have unearthed a temple dedicated to Athena, and the wall of the lonian city which flourished here between the seventh and fifth centuries B.C. Pottery dating to the third millennium B.C. has also been uncovered.

On Kadifekale, Mt. Pagos , stands the impressive ruins of a castle and its walls, built by Lysimachus in the reigion 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 areas. Saint Polycarpo Church remains are of the oldest church in Izmir , and symbolise the Seven Churches of the Apocalypse community. Saint Polycarpo 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 Süleyman 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 Abdülhamid, and built in 1901, it is decorated in an elaborate; late Ottoman style.

Restored old houses fill the old Asansör quarter, also known as the Jewish quarter. In this quarter, Dario Moreno Sokagi is the main pedestrian street to the Asansör, 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 Asansör restaurant offers a beautiful view of Izmir .

If you find yourself on Havra Sokak in Kemeralti, notice the old buildings and synagogues.

In the center of Cumhuriyet Meydani, or Republic Square, stands the Atatürk Monument , an impressive statue of Atatürk sitting on a horse and facing the sea. Erected in 1933, the Monument commemorates the liberation of the city by Turkish Forces.

Standing in Karsiyaka, The Flying Dolphins is a monument that symbolizes friendship and brotherhood.

Mosques

Hisar Mosque is the largest and oldest in Izmir . Built in the 16th century, with restorations in the 19th century, it has a delightful interior with an interesting mimber (pulpit) and mihrab (altar).

Other mosques in Izmir are Salepçioglu (20th century), Sadirvan (17th century with 19th-century restorations) and Kemeralti (17th century); all are situated close to the Kemeralti Quarter.

Parks

Kültürpark, the main park of the city, offers many different activities. ft is the site for the International Izmir Fair and contains an amusement park, zoo, restaurant and quiet gardens.

Olaf Palme Park , situated in Karsiyaka, is a relaxing place to stop. It also offers some sports facilities. Next door, Adnan Saygun Park, a center for artistic activities, contains an amphitheatre for concerts and theatrical productions, and also the Open-Air Museum Park, which has statues scattered throughout the grounds.

Insan Haklari (Human Rights) Park has lovely modem statues, including the huge Flying Dolphin Monument . Muammer Aksoy Park is a lovely seaside park with a nice view of Izmir Bay .

Turgut Özal Recreation Park , located in Bayrakli, offers a number of recreational and sporting activities.

Art, Culture and Entertainment

Izmir has for many years enjoyed a reputation as a cosmopolitan and cultural city. The Izmir Cultural Center hosts performances of opera, ballet and musical concerts, and the city is home to the Aegean Philharmonic Orchestra as well as a thriving theatrical scene. During the annual Izmir International Festival, international and Turkish artists perform at various venues in the city and surrounding area, including the theatre at Ephesus . Alsancak (Punta), with traditional restored houses, has been converted into a pedestrian entertainment walkway, with bars, cafes and restaurants.

Take a horse-drawn carriage along the promenade during the day; afterwards spend the evening absorbing the lively atmosphere of the bars and cafes around Passport Pier.

Shopping

In the streets of the Kemeralti Market area, it is possible to find fascinating antiques, both fine and fun jewellery, a great variety of clothing, and the dried figs and sultanas for which Izmir is famous. The fish restaurants in this colourful area serve up local specialities; trança and çipura, two types of sea bream. The best modern and most elegant shops line the Kordon Promenades in Alsancak, Karsiyaka and Cumhuriyet Avenue .

Places Outside Izmir

Balçova, on the road to Çesme, is one of Turkey 's largest thermal spas, with excellent facilities for guests. Çamalti, 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 Çamlığı, a pine forest near the lovely Karagöl 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 favourite haunt of Atatürk's, it is now the site of the largest statue in his honour.

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 Çesme Peninsula , lapped by the waters of the Aegean Sea , lies west of Izmir . The name 'Çesme', 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 Çesme , 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 Süleyman the Magnificent, has been converted into a hotel, while the 19th century Church of Hagios Haralambos has been restored as the Emir Çaka 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. Çesme hosts an annual International Song Contest in the summer. Also, weekly ferry lines run from Çesme to Venice . ·· The very popular holiday centre of Ilica boasts an excellent white, sandy beach, and the outstanding facilities of the Altýn 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 ; Paça Limani has a campsite which offers campers comfortable facilities. In Ilica Bay , the colourful International Çakabey Optimist Yacht race is held every year in July.

Idler, a quiet seaside village 20 km northeast of Çesme, 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 Çesme 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 Çesme, some of the region's best fish restaurants border the quay of the lively marina. Tourists are attracted by the variety of Çiftlik'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 Alaçati, a delightful and typical Aegean town. Alaçati lies to the south inland from Ilica and the coast; a couple of kilometres 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 Güvendik hill afford a marvellous view of the bay and its islands.

The prosperous little fishing village of Çesmealti 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 Foça coastline opposite, and the entrance to the Gulf of Izmir .

On the southern side of the Çesme 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.

South of Akkum, the New Neptune Holiday Village has windsurfing and diving schools; this is the best area for these sports.

Gümüldür has excellent tourist facilities - beautiful beaches, restaurants and hotels. Near Ahmetbeyli (Claros) to the east, stands the Apollo Temple and the remains of the colossal statue of Apollo; here you can also enjoy a good fish meal or a swim at the town's wide beach. A winding panoramic coastal road leads from Ahmetbeyli south to Pamucak beach.

Bodrum

An impressive medieval castle built by the Knights of Rhodes guards the entrance to Bodrum's dazzling blue bay, in which the Aegean and the Mediterranean Seas meet. The town's charm is well-known, attracting a diverse population of vacationers who stroll along its long palm-lined waterfront, while elegant yachts crowd the marina.

Not far from town, you can swim in absolutely clear, tideless, warm seas. Underwater divers, especially, will want to explore the numerous reefs, caves and majestic rock formations. The waters offer up multicoloured sponges of all shapes and sizes, octopi and an immense variety of other aquatic life.

The reputation of Bodrum's boat yards date back to ancient times, and today, craftsmen still build the traditional yachts: the tirhandil with a pointed bow and stern, and the gulette with a broad beam and rounded stern. The latter, especially, are used on excursions and pleasure trips, and in the annual October Cup Race.

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 specialities. Afterwards nightclubs (some with cabaret) and superb discos keep you going until dawn. Bodrum, known in ancient times as Halicarnassus , was the birthplace of Heredotus and the site of King Mausolus's Tomb (4th century B.C.), one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. In the harbour, 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 Göktepe, 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, Bardakçi, Gümbet, Bitez, Aktur, Ortakent Yalisi, Karaincir, Bagla and Akyarlar have fine, sandy beaches Campers and windsurfers enjoy Gümbet, and at Bitez colourful sailboards weave skilfully 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, Gümüslük 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 honouring him. In the ancient port of Myndos (Gümüslük) you can easily make many friends with the hospitable and outgoing local population. In Yalikavak, white-washed houses with cascading bougainvillaea line narrow streets. Small cafes and the occasional windmill create a picturesque setting. See the north coast of the peninsula - Torba, Türkbükü, Gölköy and Gündogan - 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. Gölköy and Türkbükü 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 Gökova , 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 Güllük , and harbour 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 Güllük, Varvil, ancient Bargilya, sits at the end of a deep narrow inlet surrounded by olive covered hillsides.

Inland from Güllük 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. Gümüskesen, a monumental tomb, thought to be a small copy of the famous Halicarnassus Mausoleum, stands in the west of the city.

The ancients built Labranda, a sanctuary dedicated to Zeus, high in the mountains. Today, tourists have rediscovered this mountain retreat and escape to its exhilarating air and breathtaking scenery.

Fethiye

The popular resort Fethiye, 135 km southeast of Marmaris, boasts an important marina at the head of a beautiful bay strewn with islands. A hill crowned by the ruins of the crusader fortress built by the Knights of Rhodes overlooks the little port. Above the town, (called Telmessos in antiquity), numerous Lycian rock tombs, reproducing the facades of ancient buildings, were cut into the cliff face. The Tomb of Amyntas, which probably dates from the fourth century B.C. is the most remarkable.

Swimmers head for the popular Çalis Beach , four kilometres west of town, or to Sövalye Island , opposite the harbour, which blazes with flowers in the spring.

The road to Belcegiz Bay takes you through the mountains where cozy guest houses cater to those seeking mountain scenery. Ocakköy is the mountain village that is a must see, stay in one of the lovely guest houses, and enjoy the numerous trekking possibilities. Hisarönü, also in the mountains, has very nice hotels. 4 km from Hisarönü, Kayaköy is a picturesque ghost town of old houses and churches - all empty. Explore the bay and the beautiful Blue Lagoon, Ölü 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, Kötürümsü 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 favourite picnic spot, with rustic restaurants serving delectable fresh trout. 36 km south of Fethiye, Yakaköy (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.

About 65 km from Fethiye, to the southeast, near Kinik, are the ruins of Xanthos, an important Lycian capital in a splendid natural setting. Letoon, nearby, was formerly an important religious cult center where three temples dedicated to Leto, Artemis and Apollo stood in ancient times.

Marmaris

Situated on a bay, backed by rugged pine-clad mountains, Marmaris is one of the most attractive maritime parklands, ideal for water sports and sailing. It makes an excellent starting point for the "Blue Voyage" tour of the Aegean coastline. In May, the Marmaris

Yacht Charter Show provides an opportunity to meet the yachts' captains and crews. With plenty of provisions aboard, you set sail in the craft of your choice and languidly explore the spectacular beauty of southern Turkey .

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 çambali is superb.

Ancient Marmaris, Physkos, was an important stage on the Anatolia-Rhodes-Egypt trade route. In the 16th century Süleyman the Magnificent had a citadel built on a hill, the remains of which can still be seen today.

Swimmers should not miss Atatürk 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 centres 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 Içmeler, 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 Turunç , the scene opens out onto the spectacular blue waters beyond the natural harbour. 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. Kumlubük, 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 harbour 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 Gökova , 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 Gökova 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 Gökova Park are often a welcome respite from the hot sun.

The Datça Peninsula provides a natural boundary between the Aegean Sea , the Gulf of Gökova to the north, and the Mediterranean Sea , the Gulf of Hisarönü to the south. Along all the 75 km from Marmaris to Datça, 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 Datça is the beautiful Aktur beach. In Datça white-washed buildings hung with bougainvillaea 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.