Kekova is a small island located in the Mediterranean Sea, off the western coast of Turkey. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque landscapes, and is a popular destination for diving and boating. The island is home to several ancient ruins, including the sunken city of Simena, which was submerged in the sea during a series of earthquakes in the 2nd century AD. Visitors to Kekova can explore the underwater ruins and learn about the history of the island. The island is also surrounded by several small villages and towns, which offer a range of accommodation options, as well as local shops, restaurants, and markets.
There are several attractions to see on Kekova and in the surrounding area:
1. Sunken City of Simena: This ancient city was submerged in the sea during a series of earthquakes in the 2nd century AD. Visitors can explore the underwater ruins by boat or by diving, and see the remains of houses, streets, and public buildings.
2. Kekova Castle: This castle is located on a hill overlooking the island and was built by the Knights of Rhodes in the 14th century. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and is a popular spot for sunset viewing.
3. Tersane (Shipyard): This ancient shipyard is located on the island and was used to build ships for the Byzantine and Ottoman empires. Visitors can see the remains of the shipyard and learn about its history.
4. Demre: This town is located on the mainland and is home to the Church of St. Nicholas, also known as Santa Claus. The church is a popular attraction and was built in the 4th century AD to honor St. Nicholas, the patron saint of sailors.
5. Myra: This ancient city is located a short drive from Demre and is home to a number of ruins, including a amphitheater, tombs, and churches. The city was an important trading and cultural center in the Roman and Byzantine empires.
6. Beaches: Kekova and the surrounding area have several beautiful beaches where visitors can swim, sunbathe, and relax. The water is crystal clear and the beaches are surrounded by pine forests and olive groves.
There are several ways to get to Kekova:
By plane: The nearest airport is Antalya International Airport, which is located about 100 km (62 miles) from Kekova. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach the island.
By bus: There are regular bus services from several cities in Turkey to Demre, which is located on the mainland near Kekova. From Demre, you can take a taxi or local bus to reach the island.
By boat: There are several boat companies that operate daily trips to Kekova from various points along the coast. You can also rent a private boat or join a boat tour to reach the island.
By car: If you are driving from Istanbul or another city in Turkey, you can take the motorway to Antalya and then follow the signs to Demre and Kekova. The journey from Antalya to Kekova takes about 2 hours by car.