Welcome to the beautiful Kekova! Kekova is a lovely island in the Mediterranean Sea, with crystal-clear turquoise seas and a rich history dating back thousands of years. This magical place is a hidden gem that will leave you in awe and wonder and is definitely worth a visit.
Kekova is a paradise for nature lovers, with its breathtaking landscapes, colorful flora and fauna, and warm sunshine that embraces you with open arms. The island is surrounded by an enchanting sea, perfect for swimming, diving, and sailing. Unfortunately, the ancient city of Simena was destroyed by an earthquake in the second century. If you explore the underwater world, you can find hidden treasures from the city. The city’s ruins are submerged in the sea, creating an extraordinary, truly unforgettable view.
Kekova is a natural wonder as well as a historical and cultural site. The Lycians, Romans, and Byzantines were just a few civilizations that inhabited the island; each has left its mark on its traditions, art, and architecture. In addition, you can visit the charming village of Kaleköy, with its ancient castle and narrow streets, and experience the local way of life, taste the delicious cuisine, and interact with friendly locals.
Kekova is a land of rich history and cultural diversity, with a fascinating past that dates back to ancient times. The island has been home to several civilizations that have left their mark on the region, each contributing to its unique identity and heritage.
The Lycians were the first to settle in the region, and their impact on Kekova was profound. They established a flourishing civilization and developed a complex society with a distinctive language and culture. In addition, the Lycians built impressive tombs and sanctuaries, such as the famous rock tombs of Myra, which are still standing today.
The Greeks and Romans also played a significant role in shaping the history of Kekova. The Greeks set up several settlements on the island and began trading with the areas around it. The Romans conquered Kekova in the 2nd century BC. They built impressive structures, such as the Baths of Agrippa and the theater of Myra, which still stand today.
The Byzantine period marked a new era in Kekova’s history, with the rise of Christianity and the establishment of several churches and monasteries on the island. The most notable example of this period is the church of St. Nicholas in Demre, which is believed to be the final resting place of the famous saint. The Byzantines also built several castles and fortifications to protect the island from invading forces.
Today, the ancient civilizations of Kekova are still visible in the island’s architecture, art, and traditions. Visitors can explore the ruins of ancient cities and monuments, such as the submerged city of Simena and the rock-cut tombs of Myra, and learn about the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. Kekova is a true gem that offers a unique insight into the ancient civilizations that have shaped our world today.
The Impact of Earthquakes on the Region
The region of Kekova is prone to earthquakes due to its location on a tectonic fault line. Over the centuries, the area has experienced several devastating earthquakes that have significantly impacted the island’s landscape and cultural heritage.
In the past, earthquakes have caused a lot of damage in the area, especially in old cities like Myra and Patara. Both the first century AD and the seventh century AD saw earthquakes that destroyed these cities, forcing their abandonment.
One of the most significant impacts of earthquakes on Kekova is the sunken city of Simena. The town was destroyed by earthquakes in the 2nd century AD and partially submerged in the sea, creating a unique underwater archaeological site. The sunken city of Simena is a popular attraction for divers and tourists. Still, it is also vulnerable to further damage from earthquakes and human activity.
Efforts are being made to preserve the region’s history and cultural heritage, despite the impact of earthquakes. The Turkish government and international organizations have invested in protecting the sunken city of Simena, including establishing marine protection zones and restrictions on diving and fishing in the area.
In addition, archaeological excavations are ongoing in Kekova, intending to uncover more of the region’s ancient history and preserve it for future generations. The excavation of ancient cities and monuments, such as the rock-cut tombs of Myra, is essential in understanding the region’s past and preserving its cultural heritage.
The sunken city of Kekova is one of the world’s most unique and fascinating archaeological sites. Located off the coast of Turkey, the sunken city was once a thriving Lycian settlement that dates back to the 4th century BC.
The city was built on a small island connected to the mainland by a causeway. It was an important center for trade and business in the area. In addition, the city was home to several public buildings, including a theater, a cemetery, and several churches.
Unfortunately, a series of earthquakes in the second century AD submerged the city, causing the ground to sink and the city to partially dip into the sea. Today, the ruins of the sunken city can still be seen beneath the crystal-clear waters of Kekova Bay, making it a popular attraction for divers and tourists.
Archaeologists have found several essential things in the underwater city of Kekova, which has helped them learn more about the ancient Lycian culture and the area’s history. The most important things found were the remains of a Byzantine church, a Roman cistern, and other public buildings. The city’s cemetery has also been dug up, which has revealed a lot about how the Lycians buried their dead.
Efforts are being made to protect and preserve the sunken city of Kekova. The Turkish government has established marine protection zones around the site, and diving and fishing are prohibited. Archaeological digs are also going on to find out more about the city’s past and keep it safe for future generations.
Kekova is an absolute delight for tourists looking for a fun-filled vacation. Because of having so many options in the area, visitors will feel refreshed and energized. Consider the following suggestions to get the most out of your stay in Kekova:
Boat Tours Around the Island: A boat tour is a perfect way to explore the picturesque coastline of Kekova. These tours take visitors on a leisurely ride around the island, allowing them to admire the stunning scenery and soak up the sun. In addition, taking a boat trip is a fantastic way to see the sights and hear exciting tales about the area’s past and present.
Visiting the Sunken City: A visit to the sunken city of Kekova is a must-do for any tourist visiting the region. The partially submerged ruins can be seen from the surface of the water, and people can snorkel or scuba dive to get close to the old buildings.
Swimming in the Crystal-Clear Waters: The waters around Kekova are crystal-clear and perfect for swimming. Tourists may cool off in the water and take in the breathtaking views.
Kayaking Around the Sunken City: Kayaking is a great way to explore the underwater city of Kekova. Visitors can paddle around the ruins and get a closer look at the ancient structures.
Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: The sunken city of Kekova is a popular spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visitors can explore the underwater ruins and see the city’s ancient structures up close.
Hiking in the Surrounding Hills: Kekova is surrounded by beautiful hills perfect for hiking. Visitors can take a leisurely hike through the countryside and admire the stunning scenery.
Trying Local Cuisine: Kekova is known for its delicious local cuisine, which features fresh seafood, vegetables, and herbs. Trying different kinds of traditional Turkish meze is always recommended.
Eating Homemade Ice Cream: Cool off with a scoop of delicious homemade ice cream in one of Kekova’s charming ice cream shops. The ice cream is made with fresh, local ingredients. It comes in various flavors, including traditional Turkish flavors like pistachio and rose.
Visiting Simena Castle: Simena Castle is a beautiful fortress overlooking the sea. Climbing to the top of the castle offers visitors breathtaking panoramas.
Shopping for Souvenirs and Local Herbs: Kekova is home to several small markets and souvenir shops where visitors can buy unique souvenirs such as handmade pottery, textiles, and jewelry. In addition, local people gather herbs from the hills around them and dry them under the sun.
The best time to visit Kekova is between May and October when the weather is warm and sunny. During this time, the sea is calm and ideal for swimming and water sports. However, it can get quite crowded during the peak season in July and August.
When visiting Kekova, it is essential to pack appropriate clothing for the warm weather, such as lightweight and breathable clothes. Remember to bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. If you plan to go hiking, comfortable shoes are a must. Additionally, if you plan to go snorkeling or scuba diving, remember to bring your swimwear and any necessary gear.
In conclusion, Kekova is a beautiful and unique destination worth visiting. Whether you are a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or just looking for a relaxing vacation, Kekova has something to offer everyone.
From exploring ancient civilizations and the sunken city to swimming in crystal-clear waters and hiking in the surrounding hills, Kekova offers a wide range of activities that will delight and excite you. You can also try local cuisine and shop for souvenirs to bring back home. And remember the homemade ice cream – a delicious treat you won’t want to miss!
Overall, Kekova is a hidden gem that is waiting to be discovered. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and welcoming people, it is a destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression. So why not start planning your trip to Kekova today? You won’t be disappointed!
