Five must-visit places in Antalya

 With abundant history and culture to it, there is a lot one can explore.

Known for its historic beauty and landscape, the city of Antalya is mesmerising to visit. From the ruins to the magnificent forts, to catching the sunset and shopping through the small shops craved in the forts, this place is a must-visit. Here are some of the places one can visit in Antalya.

The Fortress of Rome

Built in the second century, this squat, metre-high cylindrical tower perched high above Antalya's old harbour on the outskirts of Karaalioglu Park. It is believed that the fort served as a watchtower or lighthouse over the busy port below. It is now an excellent spot to watch the setting sun or get a panoramic view of the old harbour area. The park itself is ideal for picnics and a peaceful, floral escape from the downtown streets.

Aspendos

This is a place for history buffs which will make them go nuts. The place is situated some 47 kilometres east of the city. This is an archaeological site and is home to a Roman theatre, widely considered to be the best preserved in the world. It is one of Turkey's greatest popular tourist attractions. This fully restored theatre can seat 15,000 people.

 Ancient City of Perge

Perge's massive as well as debris- filled stadium partially destroyed temples, and humongous colonnaded agora radiates an understanding of past glory. This was the ancient Pamphylian capital, which flourished under Greek and then Roman rule. The ruins here are not as well-known leading to fewer visitors, allowing the ones there to explore the long colonnaded roads and half-collapsed temples without any rush. The Roman baths, Hellenistic Gate, and Acropolis area, with its sweeping views of the site, are all noteworthy.

Antalya's Historic Centre

The Kaleiçi neighbourhood was designed for the purpose of strolling. The cobblestone streets are lined with beautifully restored whitewashed and red-roofed Ottoman mansions, which are now home to a plethora of boutique hotels, souvenir shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The elegant Kesik Minaret can be found along Hesapçi Sokak (truncated minaret). This is all that remains of a building that began life as a Roman temple and was destroyed by fire in the 19th century.

Karain Caverns

The Karain Cave is a must-see for archaeologists. It is located on the incline of Sam Dagi Mountain, 390 metres above sea level. The cave's access is about 50 metres above the plain at the bottom of the hill. Just on the way to the cave, tourists can stop by a small museum at the bottom of the hill, which displays some remains such as animal bones and teeth. Inside the cave, visitors will find three large chambers and numerous small rooms separated by a calcite wall.

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