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The old town of Kalechi

In Antalya and its surroundings there are many interesting ancient buildings. For example, the ancient cities of Perge, Faselis, Olympus, Aspendos. But one of the most famous sights of Antalya, the heart of the metropolis is the Old Town of Kaleici (translated as "inside the fortress"). It has a very special historical atmosphere. It is a whole quarter in the city center in Muratpaşa district, not far from the large shopping center MarkAntalya.

The Old Town is surrounded by land fortifications on one side and the sea on the other. It has preserved buildings and structures (about three thousand) of different times, starting from the Roman times. They clearly trace the features of architectural styles of the Byzantines, Greeks and Ottomans.

It is noteworthy that for all its centuries-old history, the city's appearance has not changed much and the masterpieces of ancient architecture have been perfectly preserved to this day. The first to greet tourists and open the way to the Old Town is the unique Hadrian's Gate, built in honor of the ruler of the Roman Empire Hadrian, who visited this city in 130 BC. Another of Kaleici's most important sights is the 38-meter-high Yivli (translated as "fluted") Minaret, dating back to the 13th century. The Saat Kulesi Clock Tower stands in Kara Kapısı Town Square, built of rough stone in the 19th century, and in the 20th century a clock mechanism and dial were placed on the tower. Not far from the Karaalioglu park area is the 14-meter high Hıdırlın Tower. This architectural monument dates back to the second century AD.

Heading towards the sea, you can walk along the ancient stone staircase Kırk Merdiven (translated as "forty steps") and get to the coast. Here is a small but very picturesque port where tourist parachutes, yachts, boats and boats are constantly running. Nearby is the Iskele Mosque of the 19th century. Its main feature is an underground spring spring. Tourists believe that if you make a wish and throw a coin into the spring, it will definitely come true. A little further away is a beautiful small beach Mermerli (Marble Beach). It should be considered that the whole coast of Kaleici is rocky, and, of course, the beach is also stony, but very clean and cozy.

In the Old Town of Kaleici there are also many souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants, and small hotels. Therefore, vacationers can always have a snack and buy memorable souvenirs.

Hadrian's Gate