5 Must-Have Experiences in Alanya

 

Alanya, the equally famous district of Antalya, a world-renowned tourism city, boasts numerous natural and cultural treasures worth seeing alongside its magnificent beaches. Described by the famous historian Strabo as "the first city seen when entering Cilicia from the west," Alanya has been a historically important center for the states that ruled the region due to its strategic location. There are many areas in the district that promise unique experiences, such as a castle that has been influenced by many civilizations and Damlataş Cave, which offers visitors a therapeutic breathing opportunity. In this article, we have curated 5 unique experiences awaiting you in Alanya.

 

Watch the View from Alanya Castle

Alanya Castle, dating back to the Hellenistic Period, attracted the attention of Mediterranean pirates for a while with its defensibility and command over the sheltered harbor, compelling them to exploit its strategic advantages. The castle, which was expanded and equipped with new buildings after its acquisition from the pirates by the Roman Empire, flourished further under the reign of the Seljuk Empire. This era witnessed the establishment of a pivotal shipyard in the harbor, contributing significantly to the state's maritime supremacy. Within the castle walls, a symphony of architectural marvels emerged, including a palace, masjid, turbe structures, and cisterns. Alanya Castle, which also hosts churches and chapels from the Byzantine period, is a must-see structure with the breathtaking views it offers. For a deeper dive into Alanya Castle's history and an emotionally stirring legend, you can read our article titled "Alanya Castle and Eleni's Tears".

Immerse Yourself in the Mesmerizing Atmosphere of Damlataş Cave 

Unearthed in 1948 during quarry-opening excavations, the cave is a natural formation inviting exploration with its captivating ambiance sculpted by the intricate dance of stalactites and stalagmites. Aptly named Damlataş for the perpetual water droplets cascading from its stalactites, the cave remains a marvel even today. A significant number of the visits to the cave, believed to provide therapeutic benefits for conditions like asthma, are carried out within the scope of health tourism. Damlataş, the first cave to be opened to tourism in Türkiye, awaits your visit to offer you rejuvenating breaths, courtesy of its unwavering climate naturally set at 22 degrees Celsius and 95% humidity.  

Follow the Footsteps of History in Syedra Ancient City

Situated on the western border of the ancient Cilicia region, Syedra's name left its mark on coins from the 1st century AD, minted by the Roman Emperor Tiberius. According to the research conducted on the ruins, the city is believed to be encircled by walls and granted access to visitors through the monumental gate on the west side, which is still standing today. Within its boundaries were water storage pools and small cisterns that provided water to its inhabitants from the spring in the Sarnıç Cave to the southwest. The cave was also used for religious purposes during the early Christian period, as can be seen from the frescoes on its walls that tell a spiritual tale. The Syedra Archaeological Site  paints a picture of ancient life, featuring a theater, temple, basilica, church, houses and shops, as well as a very magnificent bathhouse with mosaic remains on its floor. Dating back to the 7th century BC and believed to have been in use until the 13th century AD, Syedra provides insights into the daily routines of ancient city dwellers.

 

See Historical Artifacts in Alanya Museum

Celebrated for its bronze-cast Heracles statue from the 2nd century AD, the Alanya Museum showcases a diverse collection of everyday items in glass, bronze, and terracotta, alongside tomb offerings, jewelry, and sculptures spanning from the Paleolithic Age. The museum also has a rich collection of coins from different periods. In addition to a hall where artifacts discovered in Alanya Castle are exhibited, the museum also holds a Ship and Maritime Hall, featuring modern interactive museology applications that attracts visitors of all ages. Particularly appealing is the section designed for children, introducing them to the world of archaeology. Notably, the Ship and Maritime Hall offers a delightful experience for youngsters, allowing them to virtually captain an ancient ship by taking the helm – an entertaining and educational highlight of the museum visit. 

 

Bask in the Mediterranean Waters at Cleopatra Beach

Named in honor of Cleopatra, the last Hellenistic queen of Ancient Egypt, the beach is steeped in captivating legends. Stories abound of the queen making this shoreline her preferred spot for swimming, with rumors even circulating about a tunnel connecting Alanya Castle to the beach. Extending 2.5 kilometers to the west of Alanya, this Blue-Flag beach, with its crystal-clear sea waters and fine sand, indeed captures the essence of an ancient queen’s elegance. One of the most exclusive beaches on the Mediterranean coast of Türkiye, Cleopatra is one of the most impressive destinations for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the picturesque view.