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Sightseeing
Denizatı
Holiday Village is conveniently located to the historical sites,
entertainment
centers and sightseeing points
EPHESUS
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History:
There
is as yet no definite knowledge about the exact date of the foundation of Ephesus,
but famous historians such as Strabon and Pausanias, agreed in the idea of
that Ephesus was founded by Amazons, and inhabited by the oldest
settlers of Anatolia-Lelegians and Carians, as early as 3000 BC.
In
the year of 10 BC, Androclos, the son of King of Athens-Kodros, was
searching a location for establishing a site. Androclos belonged to Akhas
, was running from the Dor invasion in Greece. He was leading one of the
migration convoys. It was predicted by an Apollon oracle that a fish and a
boar would show the location of the new settlement. Days later, parallel
to the oracle’s prediction, while frying, a fish fell down from the pan,
irritating a hiding boar behind the bushes. The feared boar escaped
immediately. Androclos followed the boar and established the city of Ephesus,
where he had killed the boar. When Androclos died in the wars with Carians,
a mausoleum was built to the memory of the first king of Ephesus.
The mausoleum is considered to be placed around "The Door of
Magnesia".
Ephesus was ruled by the Lydian king, Kreisos, in the mid 6BC. The
city reached the "Golden Age" and became a good model to the
Antic World in culture and art, as well. But the inhabitants of Ephesus
moved away. Because they did not like being ruled and lived in the new Ephesus
that is located around the area of Artemision. As the detailed excavations
have not completed yet, apart from the Artemision, the remains of that age
haven’t been revealed.
Later, Ephesus was dominated by Persians. As Ephesians did not join
the "Ionian Rebellion" against Persians, the city was saved from
destruction. The rebellion resulted in the loss of Persian. Alexander the
Great won Persians and the Ionian cities got their independence in the
year of 334. Ephesus was in great prosperity during the times of
Alexander the Great Until the arrival of Alexander the Great, Ephesus
was consisted of two governing systems, democratic and oligarchic. But the
oligarchic system was violated with the coming of a new ruler, and a
rebellion existed in Ephesus. The Temple of Artemision was fired
and destroyed by the supporters of oligarchy in 356BC. As the temple
became unusable, Alexander the Great proposed for repairing. But the
Ephesians delicately refused for the reason that "A God can not built
a temple for a God." An Ephesian architect, Dinocrates restored the
Temple of Artemision.
After
the death of Alexander the Great, Ephesus was ruled by the general
of him, Lysimakhos, in 287 BC. Lysimakhos decided to change the prior
location of Ephesus to further west, due to the destruction of the
port by the alluviums, and the inhabitants were forced to settle in the
new place named "Arsinoeina", the name of Lysimakhos’ wife.
The city was surrounded by wide stone walls in 10 meters height and 9
meters length. With the death of Lysimakhos, Ephesians destroyed most of
the city walls. And, "Arsinoeina" was changed into "Ephesus"
again, to be forgotten eternally
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Ephesus antique theatre
Ephesus,
once the most important commercial center of the western Anatolia , is one
of the highlights of Turkey that awaits the exploring tourists. The city
was established as a port on the mouth of the river Cayster and was one of
the foremost cities of the world for its being on a strategic trade route
in Anatolia.
The city itself and the ruins are all on the sides of a fertile valley.
The extensive ruins including the theatre, library or gymnasium create the
special atmosphere of Ephesus, and appeal to every visitors.
Ephesus
has been a "center" during the date. Once a trade center
of the ancient world , a religious center of the early Christianity and
today, a unique tourism center proving all its perfectas to the visitors
through the world.
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Celcius Library
Ephesus
was controlled by the Romans in 190 BC. The city was given to the
Bergamian kings for a time. With the death of King Attalos 3 in 133BC, the
city was re-ruled by the Romans. Ephesus reached to its height and
was notorious for its wealth and luxury between 1-4 AD., especially during
the reign of Augustus. During the period, the population of Ephesus
increased to 225 000, and the city became the capital of the new Asia. By
cleaning the river Caystros from the alluviums, the great trade port of Ephesus,
a gateway to foreign countries, enriched the prosperity of the city and
continued to thrive with commerce and culture. The city was constructed,
adding new models to the former magnificence of Ephesus. "Celcius
Library" clearly exemplifies the perfecta of the era, with the
delicate details of the construction.
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Ephesus has played significant roles during the date, in the early
Christianity, as well. The prestige of Ephesus increased with the
arrival of Saint Paul, for spreading the Christianity to the Ephesians
worshipping to Artemision. St. Paul and the disciplines of Christianity
were strictly refused by Ephesians, elderly. With the long tiring
struggles of St. Paul, Christianity was accepted by the most of the
population around Ephesus. St. Paul had also sent one of his most
famous letters to the church in Ephesus. Additionally, St Jean and
Virgin Mary visited Ephesus and Virgin Mary settled down the Mount
Bulbul, located close to Ephesus, around the years of 431 AD.
Ephesus became a state of Seljukian in the year of 1090, for a time
was held by Byzantine. In 1307 Seljukians controlled the city again.
However, years later, the River Caystros was silted up, leaving the site
far inland. Therefore, the city of Ephesus has lost its
significance, due to the development of the ports of Izmir and Kusadasi in
sea-trade.
How
to Go?… Ephesus is located 38 km away from
Denizatı and it may be reached easily by Kusadasi- Selcuk minibuses.
But it is advisable to visit this eye-catching site with the professional
guides provided by your acency or Denizatı.
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House Of Virgin Mary
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Located
on the top of the "Bulbul" mountain 9 km ahead of
Ephesus,
the shrine of Virgin Mary enjoys a marvelous atmosphere hidden in
the green. It is the place where Mary may have spent her last days. Indeed,
she may have come in the area together with Saint John, who spent several
years in the area to spread Christianity. Mary preferred this remote place
rather than living in crowded place.
The
house is a typical Roman architectural example, entirely made of stones.
In the 4th century AD, a church, combining her house and grave, has been
built. The original two-stored house, which consisted of an anteroom (where
today candles are proposed), bedroom and praying room (Christian
church area) and a room with fireplace (chapel for Muslims). A front
kitchen fell into ruins and has been restored in 1940's. Today, only the
central part and a room on the right of the altar are open to visitors.
From there one can understand that this building looks more like a church
than a house. Another interesting place is the "Water of Mary",
a source to be found at the exit of the church area and where a rather
salt water, with curative properties, can be drunk by all.
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Paul VI
was the first pope to visit this place in the 1960's. Later, in the
1980's, during his visit, Pope John-Paul II declared the Shrine of Virgin
Mary has a pilgrimage place for Christians. It is also visited by
Muslims who recognize Mary as the mother of one of their prophets. Every
year, on August 15th a ceremony is organized to commemorate
Mary's Assumption.
How
to Go?... The House of Virgin Mary is located on top of
Bulbul Mountain, approximately 52 km away from Denizatı. The house may be
visited by private car or taxies, except the tours provided by the travel
agencies.
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Seven
Sleepers
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Located
on the northern slopes of Mount Pion, near Ephesus, The Grotto of
Seven Sleepers has been discovered by both Christians and Moslems
with a growing interest. According to the Christian legend seven young men
were walled in during the reign of Decius (250) and yet were seen alive in
the streets of Ephesus during the reign of Theodosius II some years after
the Council of Ephesus (431). In the Koran, it is claimed that the
sleepers slept 309 years in their tombs. A church has been built above
this Grotto by the Christians.
During excavations
in the area, the church and several tombs have been brought to daylight.
Some inscriptions of Seven Sleepers have been noticed on
the walls of the church.
How
to Go?...
The Grotto of Seven Sleepers is on the area of Ephesus. So, you can
visit Seven Sleepers on your tour to Ephesus. It is located 93 km
away from Denizatı and it may be reached easily by Kusadasi - Selcuk
minibuses.
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İZMİR
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İzmir, third
biggest city of Turkey, called Pearl of the Aegean, has been planned
in such a way that the chaotic environment of metropolises has been avoided.
Izmir is located at the beginning of a long narrow gulf called
Izmir Gulf which has a mild and sunny weather. It is a city
which is famous for its lovely weather and beautiful girls.
According to the legend the name Smyrna drives from a mythological
story. The wife of Cyprus King claimed that her daughter Smyrna was
prettier than Aphrodite. To punish Aphrodite made her to fall in
love with her father and one night when her father was drunk she went into
his bed. When Smyrna's father woke up he saw her and sent her away
from the palace. He followed her to the countryside where he would kill
her with his sword. However when he was about to kill her Aphrodite
pitied Smyrna and made her turn into a myrtle tree. The King split
the tree into two out of where Adonis was born.
The harbor of the city is the second biggest in Turkey. It is lively and
cosmopolitan all year especially during International Art
Festival in June/July and International Fair in August/September.
Izmir was founded in the 3rd millennium B.C. in Bayrakli.
During that time it had the most advanced culture in Western Anatolia. In
1500
B.C. it was conquered by Hittite Empire. Izmir,
with its ancient name Smyrna was one of the most important cities of the
Ionian Federation in the 1st millenium B.C. Homer is
believed to live here. In 200 B.C. the city was conquered by
the Lydians until the 4th century B.C. when the
Persians got the control. The y built a new city in Kadifekale. From the
first century B.C. to 1415 it was conquered by the Byzantines,
Seljuks and at last by the Ottoman sultan Mehmet Celebi.
There are a few museums in Izmir. Archeological Museum
of Izmir located in Konak Square which has the statues of Poseidon
and Demeter. Next to the Archeological Museum there is Ethnography
Museum which has the collection of folkloric artifacts, Bergama and
Gordes carpets, traditional costumes and camel bridles. The Ataturk
Museum which is located on Ataturk Street has the collection of
photographs of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and his personal belongings. The Fine
Arts Museum is located in Konak which has the collection of famous Turkish
painters. The Selcuk
Yasar Art Museum is on Cumhuriyet Boulevard which has the
collection of 20th Century Turkish Art. There is also the Natural
History
Museum and Ege University Botanical Garden in Bornova. 
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A Temple which was dedicated to Athena was found in Bayrakli.
There are the ruins of the castle in Kadifekale built by Lysimachus
during the reign of Alexandre the Great. The Agora in the Namazgah
Quarter was built during the reign of Alexandre the Great however the
ruins are dating back to Marcus Aurelius who had it rebuilt after an
earthquake in 178
A.D.
The Sirinyer and Yesildere Aqueducts are the two examples of Roman
engineering. There are also the Saint Polycarp Church which
symbolizes the Seven Churches of the Apolcalypse, the Saat
Kulesi in Konak Square, Asansor quarter, Dario Moreno
Sokagi, Havra Sokak in Kemeralti, Ataturk Monument in
Cumhuriyet Meydani, Karsiyaka and Alsancak are worth seeing in Izmir
with many restaurants, bars, cafes and discos.
Some of the mosques which are worth visiting in Izmir are Hisar Mosque
which was built in 16th century, Salepcioglu, Sadirvan,
Kemeralti which are all located close to Kemeralti Quarter.
The well known park in Izmir is Kulturpark where the
International Fair assembles. There are amusement park, zoo, restaurants,
theatres, library and beautiful gardens. In Karsiyaka there is
Adnan Saygun Park which contains an amphitheatre for concerts and
performances, Open-Air Museum Park, Insan haklari (Human Rights)
Park, Muammer Akso Park and Turgut Ozal Recretaion Park in Bayrakli.
One of the most important visiting place is Balcova where there is
Turkey's largest thermal spas. There are hotels around which
are suitable for thermalism. There are mud and herb baths, saunas,
paraffin, skin care, massage, fitness center with experts who are
specialized in rheumatism, waist and neck aches, orthopedics and neurology.
Camalti is located 15km away from Karsiyaka which is a
preserved area for bird sanctuary of the Izmir Bird
Paradise. There are many species like flamingoes and pelicans.
The Seven Churches that were mentioned by St John are all located around
Izmir which are in Izmir, Ephesus, Eskihisar, Alasehir, Sart, Akhisar
and Bergama.
How to Go???
Izmir is
49km north of DENİZATI . The buses are available in every 30 minutes.
It can be visited by a daily private tour.
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NOTION
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Known as the harbor city of Colophon and its link to the sea,
the site of ancient Notion, is 17 km south of Denizatı on the
Kusadasi-Seferihisar coastal highway, within the borders of the seaside
village- Ahmetbeyli of Izmir. Located on top of the hill of Ahmetbeyli
Beach, the city covers an area of 500x1000 meters on two adjoining hills
to the east of the beach.
The
early settlements of Notion dates back to the 6th century BC.
During the Peloponnasian Wars- the dreadful wars between Helens during the
years of 431-404 BC, Notion played a significant role, serving as the
naval base of Athenians. The numerous wars between Spartans& Athenians
were to colonize the coastal towns of Anatolia and ended with the loss of
Athenians. The harbor of Notion was considered as alternative to
the harbor of Ephesus but did not become as popular as Ephesus, during the
time. In 334 BC, the city was invaded by Alexander the Great. Following
his death, Lysimakhos, the founder of the New Ephesus, deported most of
the inhabitants to Ephesus and Lebedus. Part of the remaining population
emigrated to Notion, which hence forth was called "Neo
Colophon" . During the Roman times, the city entered upon a new era
of prosperity both in commerce and social life. Temples, agoras, and
bouleuterions, buildings housing social activities were built throughout
the period. Towards the end of the Roman era, the harbor of Notion
lost its prior importance as it was getting filled. During the Byzantine
era, Notion was within the borders of Asian Province and remained
as the bishopric until the Middle Ages.
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Systematic
excavations in Notion started in 1921-22 by a French team conducted
by C. Picards, R.Demargel and A.Laumonier. During the serious excavations,
Sanctuary of Athena was unearthed. The excavations of the city theatre
and the northern necropolis was started by a team under the supervision of
Prof. E. Atalay in the years of 1985-86, but canceled by the sudden death
of Prof. E. Atalay. In 1992, a project- also supported by the Ministry of
Culture, Grand Circle Foundation of the USA and Ludwig Institute of
Monument Research (Vienna), was started in order to remove the thick cover
of vegetation that had caused great damage to the remains of the city and
to explore the unknowns about Notion.
The city, located by the sea, resembles an acropolis and is surrounded by
4 km long Hellenistic city walls. Today, most of the city walls- giving a
clear idea to the plan of the city, have been revealed. The two main gates
of Notion are located in the west and in the north, opening onto
the harbor. The north gate was functioning in trade. In the center of the
city, overlooking the splendid view of The Temple of Claros , many
structures have been revealed- The Temple of Athena, primarily.
Corinthian order temple with two columns built in the 2AD, in the reign of
Hadrian, stands in good condition. During the recent years, a restoration
project to preserve the ruins of the Temple of Athena, has been planned.
Built in the Hellenistic era and located in the northeast of the city, the
theatre, is one of the well-preserved structures in the city with a
seating capacity of approximately 6000 and 27 rows of seats.
How to Go?…
The ancient Notion is 17 km south of DENİZATI.
Kusadasi-Seferihisar minibuses, departing every 30 minutes, pass
through Ahmetbeyli village which is close to the ancient site.
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CLAROS
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Situated
19 km south of DENİZATI and 2 km north of the ancient harbor Notion,
Claros was famous for "The Temple
of Apollo" as a center of oracle in the Hellenistic and
Roman eras. Claros possessed several religious edifices including
the famous temple of Apollo, that is also mentioned in the lays of Homer.
Constructed in the 2nd century BC, the square propylon -used by
the people coming from Notion and the direction of the sea, is located in
the entrance of the holy site. The construction is in the Doric order and
rests on a krepis with three steps. The famous "Temple of Apollo"
-as one of Apollo’s shrine surrounded by columns, was situated in a
sacred wood of ancient times. Measuring 26 x 40 meters, the temple is
constructed in Doric order. Built in the Hellenistic era, the temple was
absolutely completed and became a frequent visited place during the reign
of Emperor Hadrian in the 2nd century AD - inscribed on the
lintel resting columns on the façade. Tall statues of Apollo, his sister
Artemis, and his mother Leto lie to the northwest of the monumental
entrance. The holy cave near the temple proves that the cult of Cybele was
once practiced here. In the inscriptions of the columns and the walls of
the semi-circular exedra, the names of the delegations that had come from
Anatolia and Eastern Europe to consult the oracle of Apollo, also the
names of the children and young people who sang hymns to the God Apollo,
are expressed. The traces on the exedras and the columns prove that there
were bronze statues, belonging to the owners of the monuments , through
the sacred road. The Temple of Apollo stands at the end of the sacred road.
Under the temple, the existence of an older temple of Apollo and its altar
dating back to the 6th century BC, have been revealed.
A male
oracle was used in the Temple of Apollo, unlike the female medium of
Delphi. The oracle used to deliver his revelations in the sacred area
under the cella of the temple. Only the stone arches of this sacred area
are remained. The oracle was consulted only at nights in a cave or an
underground room, and each oracle could serve only for one year. After
drinking the holy water from a rectangular well, the oracle used to answer
the questions of people and delegations coming for consulting. One of the
more notable occasions on which it was consulted, was at the time of the
new Smyrna, toward the end of the 4th century BC.
The
marble chair and large sundial, near the altar of the temple are displayed
in the Ephesus Museum. Many statues and relieves unearthed from the
previous excavations are on display in the Izmir Archeological Museum.
How
to Go?… Claros is
situated 19km south of DENİZATI, on the Kusadasi-Seferihisar
coastal highway. As the city is not located on the road, it is advisable
to visit by a private car.
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ŞİRİNCE
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This pretty old
Orthodox village, 12 km away from Ephesus and 51km from Denizatı,
was once Cirkince ("ugly"). Indeed its
habitants gave this name on purpose as they did not want to be bothered by
foreigners nor to share the beauty of their village.
Still
after years, visitors understood that the village was not ugly at all and
called it Sirince ("pretty"). As the village is located
on the top of a mountain, anyone will enjoy the impressive wine yards' and
peach trees' views on his way.
Today
the village is a perfect synthesis of Turk-Greek culture as of the 1920's:
after the Independence War, people exchange between Greek and Turks has
occurred and all those typical Greek houses, though they kept their
original outside characteristics, have received the local layout inside.
The most beautiful specimens are open to visitors. And even in the
courtyard of one of them, one will discover a nicely restorated Orthodox
church.
All
the narrow streets of the village belong to the women, selling handcrafts
of all kinds, olive oil. Another attraction of Sirince is its wine:
try its taste in small cafés or in the former municipal school restorated.
Though
Sirince is developing its tourism very quickly, it has been able to
preserve its authenticity and the meaning of its name.
How
to Go?...
Sirince is about 51km away from DENİZATI. From
Selcuk, you may take a minibus to Sirince. Rent-a-car
is advisible to visit Şirince.
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SELÇUK
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The
18 km of road from Kusadasi to Selcuk pass through spectacular
beach and mountain scenery. The pretty town Selcuk is famous with its
being a fascinating mixture of all historical periods. The strategic
location of Selcuk has provided to be a popular place to settle
down during the centuries. The name ‘Selcuk’ comes
from the Turkish tribes settled in the region by the 12th
century.
Selcuk
has been reputed well for its closeness to the ancient Ephesus, Virgin
Mary’s House and Seljukian works of art.
Besides the historical richness around the area, Selcuk is worth-seeing
with the places of superb natural beauty surrounding the town. The village
“Sirince” is the one that attracts every visitors with its
spectacular view from a mountain in the 8km east of Selcuk. The
beach of “Pamucak” is also of interest, 9km away from the town. A very
nice jogging road covered by the old raspberry trees just in the entrance
of Selcuk, also makes an impressive setting and an ideal location
for relaxation.
Selcuk
is rich and famous with the lively festivals scattered almost in every
seasons. The Ephesus International Festival, held in May; The Camel
Wrestling Festival, performed in the third weekend of January lasting in
one day, attract both participants and visitors. Also the Rite ceremonies
at the House of Virgin Mary are held every year on the 15th of
August from 10:00 in the morning.
There
are many good buys in the charming boutiques and colorful bazaars situated
in the picturesque narrow, winding streets of the town. Also the town
market on Saturdays offer an enjoying shopping to the
visitors with the great variety of food and textile. Relaxing with a
delicious meal in an inviting restaurant is a popular way to spend the
evening hours in Selcuk. Visitors may sample the famous “chop-shish”
-a meat variety, or classical Turkish cuisine. Selcuk is also
serving with its good and clean accommodations, suitable for all visitors.
Finally, it is guaranteed that the hospitable people of Selcuk
will make your holiday comfortable and enjoyable.
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ÇEŞME
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It is
located in the west of Izmir. The name Cesme means fountain
in Turkish. The name comes from the many springs around the area during
the 18th and 19th centuries. It is one of the most
popular holiday resorts in Turkey with its clean sandy blue sea, fish
restaurants and lovely climate. In the
center there is a 14th century Genoese fortress which was
restored by the Ottomans in the 16th century. The
Caravanserai neighboring the fortress was built by Suleyman the
Magnificent in the 16th century which was converted
to a hotel during the restoration of Hagios Haralambos Church
as the Amir Caka art gallery in the 19th century.
During
the day one can join the boat trips to many islands around Cesme
and at night there are many discos, bars, cafes to make your holiday
enjoyable.
Cesme is also famous for the Song Contests in the summer which is
held in the Cesme Castle.
There
are ferries running from Cesme to Venice. The beaches of Cesme
are ideal for water sports. Especially Alacati is famous for its
good location for wind surfing
In Ilıca
International Cakabey Optimist Yacht Races are held every year in July.
The most famous place to visit in Cesme for eating fish is Dalyan
which is located in the north of Cesme. The best beaches in
the area are Pirlanta Plaj and Altinkum which are
located in the south of the center.
How
to Go?...
It
is 90km away from DENİZATI. It can be visited by rent-a-car or by
busses running from Izmir |
ÖZDERE
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özdere view |
a
fish restaurant nearby |
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local market |
local market(every saturday) |
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