Kaleici, Antalya

Old Town Kaleici, situated in the heart of Antalya, is a historic neighborhood that attracts numerous tourists. Renowned for its Ottoman architecture, intricate narrow streets, and authentic mosques, it also offers a vibrant atmosphere with its abundance of restaurants, cafes, and bars featuring concert halls. Visitors can explore the neighborhood's rich historical heritage, which includes monuments from various periods and eras, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and admirers of ancient architecture.

Having stood the test of time, Kaleici has been a witness to countless significant historical events throughout the centuries. The site's first settlement dates back to the 4th century BC, when Attalus II, the ruler of the Kingdom of Pergamum, ordered the construction of a city named Attalia in his honor over two thousand years ago.

In 133 BC, the Romans took control of the port city, and during their rule, the area became known as Kaleici, meaning "inside the fortress." The outpost, enclosed by towering walls featuring 80 towers and numerous cannons, held strategic importance as a crucial point along the route from Europe to Asia. In the 15th century, the Ottoman Empire gained control of Antalya and the Old City. Alongside the Roman and Byzantine structures, traditional Islamic buildings adorned the area.

Modern Kaleici extends across an area of more than 35 hectares and encompasses four districts. Despite enduring several earthquakes, most of the buildings have been meticulously restored, with some preserved in their original form. Notable landmarks that have withstood the test of time include Hadrian's Gate, Hıdırlık Tower, and Yivli Minaret.