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Kekova
One of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Turkish coast, the area of Kekova in the Antalya province is a small Turkish island on the Mediterranean whose space covers the nearby islets and bays near Kas.
The region takes its name from the main island Kekova, and includes the towns of Kelekoy and Üçağız (the later of which means three mouths that open to the sea), that have an ancient history stretching back to Lycian times. In fact, visitors will be thrilled to discover that the area is home to four towns of Simena, Aperlae, Dolchiste and Teimioussa of ancient civilization. It is no surprise that history is present across every turn in this region.
Formerly belonging to Italy, a 1932 convention transferred this island paradise back to the Turkish government.
The area is a famed specially protected area as declared by Turkish Ministry of Environment and Forest since the 1990’s in recognition of its historical and natural heritage to the community.
The dockyard at the bay called Tersane houses the location of the sunken city or batik sehir, with homes, columns, stairways and walkways of ancient times are today touching the seafloor and can be viewed through the clear waters.
To the north of the main island of Kekova are the ruins of a once grand ancient town of Dolchiste. The town was ravaged by an earthuake ravaged in the 2nd Century AD. Later on, the area saw the influence of the Byzantine and Arab occupations, most notable in the form of the ruined Byzantine church that still stands today.
Canoeing and skin diving are the best activities visitors can try out while in Kekova, especially since the slim canoe can travel swiftly in areas untraversed by larger boats, and skin diving. Swimmer and snorklers also allows unprecendent access to the wonderous treasures of the deep in the ruined city under the turquoise waters, where the buildings, mosaic tiles and other artifacts can be seen in their watery slumber.
After a long day underwater with the ancient worlds at your feet, guests are invited to visit the many restaurants that serve seafood freshy daily in the traditional Mediterranean and Turkish style of the region.
