Paradise Where Sea, Sand, Sun and Green Nature Blend with History and Culture: Antalya

In today's article, we will talk about Antalya, one of the most popular and popular cities in Turkey, which is a matter of curiosity for hundreds of thousands of people from Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
HISTORY
The history of Antalya dates back to 2000 BC. The Lycians were the first to settle in the region. The Lycians established many important cities in Antalya. The most important of these cities are Patara, Xanthos and Myra. The Lycians were a highly successful civilization in maritime and trade. In the 7th century BC, Antalya came under the rule of the Persian Empire. The Persians built many important structures in Antalya. The most important of these structures is the Aspendos Ancient Theater. In 334 BC, Antalya came under the rule of Alexander the Great. After the death of Alexander, Antalya came under the rule of the Ptolemaic Kingdom. In 190 BC, Antalya came under the rule of the Roman Empire. The Romans built many important buildings in Antalya. The most important of these structures are Hadrian's Gate and Antalya Castle. During the Byzantine Empire, Antalya became an important port city. The Byzantines built many important churches in Antalya. The most important of these churches is Aya Yorgi Church. In 1207, Antalya came under the rule of the Seljuk Turks. The Seljuks built many important mosques and madrasahs in Antalya. The most important of these structures are the Yivli Minaret and the Alaaddin Mosque. In 1423, Antalya came under the rule of the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans built many important buildings in Antalya. The most important of these structures are Tekeli Mehmet Pasha Mosque and Antalya Museum.

CULTURE
Antalya has a rich culture that forms a synthesis of Mediterranean and Anatolian cultures. It is possible to see the traces of many civilizations such as Lycians, Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks and Ottomans in the culture of the city. Antalya's folklore is quite rich. In the folklore of the city, there are many games such as halay, zeybek and teke zortlatma. Antalya's cuisine is also very rich. In the cuisine of the city, the flavors of Mediterranean and Anatolian cuisine come together. Antalya hosts many international festivals every year. The most important of these festivals are Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival, Antalya Piano Festival and Antalya International Ballet Festival. (photograph; antalya.com.tr)

Natural Beauties
Antalya is one of the cities with the most beautiful natural beauties in Turkey. The city is located on the Mediterranean coast and boasts stunning beaches, bays, and waterfalls. Antalya's national parks, located in the Taurus Mountains, are ideal for trekking and camping. Some of the most important natural beauties of Antalya are: Düden Waterfall, Kurşunlu Waterfall, Manavgat Waterfall, Köprülü Canyon National Park, Güllük Mountain National Park, Termessos National Park, Olympos National Park. (Photo: antalya.com.tr)

TOURISTIC PLACES
Antalya is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Turkey. There are accommodation options for every budget and activities for all tastes in the city. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in Antalya include: Kaleiçi Antalya Museum Aspendos Ancient Theater Perge Ancient City Side Ancient City Lara Beach Konyaalti Beach Kemer Side Alanya

THINGS TO DO IN ANTALYA
There are many things to do in Antalya. You can explore the historical and cultural richness of the city, enjoy its natural beauties, or sunbathe on the beaches and enjoy the sea. Here are some things to do in Antalya:
Stroll through the historical streets of Kaleiçi. (Photo: http://www.antalya.gov.tr/kaleici)

Learn about the city's history at the Antalya Museum. (Photo: https://muzeler.org/antalya-muzesi--535855)

Watch a concert or show at the Aspendos Ancient Theater. (Photo: https://www.kulturportali.gov.tr/turkiye/antalya/gezilecekyer/aspendos)

Explore the ruins from the Roman period in the ancient city of Perge. (https://antalya.ktb.gov.tr/TR-310900/perge.html)

Visit the Temple of Apollo in the ancient city of Side. (Photo: antalya.com.tr)

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ANTALYA
Antalya is the sunniest city in Turkey. The city has an average of 300 days of sunshine per year. Antalya is the largest tourism center in Turkey. The city welcomes millions of tourists every year. Antalya's Lara Beach is one of the longest beaches in the world. Antalya's Duden Waterfall is the only waterfall that pours directly into the Mediterranean Sea. Antalya is one of the most popular destinations in Turkey with its history, culture, natural beauties, and tourist attractions. You can have an unforgettable holiday experience by visiting Antalya.