The ancient part of the province has a history of 2 years. Historical monuments and architecture are very diverse, due to the influence of the Ottoman, Byzantine and Roman periods of rule. Walking along the streets of Kaleici, you will inhale the aromas of antiquity and uniqueness.
The ruler of Pergamum, King Attalus, had long been searching with his subordinates for a heavenly place on earth to build a new city there. The search continued all over the world until one day the ruler saw an amazing area where the Mediterranean Sea raged on one side and the Tauric Mountains rose on the other. Here they began to build a new city, named in honor of the ruler, "Attalia".
When the Romans came to power, they founded the Kaleiçi district. At that time, it was a strategic port, surrounded by 80 towers and a large number of cannons. After 15 centuries, the entire city passed into the hands of the Ottoman Empire, after which Islamic buildings and mosques began to appear here.
Today, the old district occupies an area of 34 hectares and is divided into four parts. Most of the buildings have retained their original appearance, and this in turn attracts a huge number of tourists all year round. Everyone will find something interesting here: Turkish cuisine in cozy cafes, a gift for loved ones in a souvenir shop, high-quality service in hotel rooms.
The main attractions include:
— Hadrian's Gate, built in 133 in honor of the Roman emperor of the same name. This is where travelers begin their acquaintance with the old district. The ruler had his own coat of arms, which is carved on the two-tiered gate. The building is located on modern Ataturk Street. Here you can even see traces of hooves and chariots that have been preserved for many years.
— The Yivli Minaret was built together with the Aladdin Kaykubad Mosque on the territory of an old Christian church. “Yivli” is read in Turkish as “fluted”. Eight cylinders make up the entire structure. Due to this, the minaret, despite its massiveness, looks light and graceful. According to legend, the building was erected in honor of the 20-year war that took place between the Seljuks and the Romans. The foundation is made of two-meter-high stone, and quotes from Allah and the Prophet Muhammad are depicted on the floor. You can climb the stairs, which have 91 steps, and visit the place where the sultan called pilgrims to prayer.
— The Clock Tower on Kale Kapisi Square is the calling card of Antalya. It was built using processed and uncut stones. The clock itself was presented to Sultan Abdul Hamid II by the German ruler Wilhelm in the 19th century. The tower consists of two tiers: an eight-meter rectangular one; and the second, six meters high and made of smooth stone.
— Market. When you go down to the Takeli Mehmet Mosque, you will find yourself in a sea bazaar that occupies the entire street. There are also souvenir shops and small stores. You can buy absolutely different things there – from gold and fur products to spices and hookahs. After a long walk along the ancient streets of Kaleici, you can sit down in a restaurant and try the local cuisine.
One day is definitely not enough for you to see the most interesting places.
Here are some tips on how to make the most of your time in Kaleici:
First, start your hike from Kalekapasa Square, where you can get the cheapest freshly squeezed juice.
Second, be sure to visit the master who makes souvenir lamps from ordinary pumpkins.
Third. Always have cash with you. Cards are not accepted everywhere.
