Turkey is known for Istanbul, the bridge between Europe and Asia. But for a unique travel experience, exploring the Aegean Sea region in southwest Turkey is recommended. This area is rich in ancient Greek civilization remains, connecting Turkey to ancient Greece and Rome. Antalya, with its beautiful coast and historical sites like Aspendos, is a must-visit. Bodrum offers a mix of history and beautiful views, including the famous Mausoleum of Mausolus. And Rhodes Island, connected to Turkey via ferry, boasts medieval architecture and a rich history as the base for the Knights of St. John. These destinations offer a glimpse into ancient civilizations and a unique travel experience in Turkey.
When you hear about Turkey, the first thing that comes to mind is Istanbul, which serves as a bridge between Europe and Asia. It is truly a crossroads of civilizations. It’s no wonder that it has become a popular tourist destination.
However, if you want to take your travels to the next level, you need to focus on the southwestern region. This includes the Aegean Sea, which stretches between Greece and Turkey.
Ancient Greek civilization is known as the “birthplace of European civilization,” and there are many traces of it along the coast of the Aegean Sea in Turkey. These ruins, excavated by archaeologist Heinrich Schliemann, are important sites along the Turkish coast of the Aegean Sea.
In other words, Turkey is a crucial place connected directly to ancient Greece and ancient Rome. So, this time, along with comments from Mr. Nakatani, who is in charge of World Air Services South Europe and Turkey, we will introduce three places you should visit in Turkey.
■1: Antalya – Aspendos
Antalya, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, is said to have been built by a king of the Pergamon Kingdom who ruled the coast of the Aegean Sea and the inland areas from the 3rd to 2nd century BC. Since then, the ownership has changed over time, from the Romans to the Byzantines, and then to the Seljuks.
The symbol of the town is the minaret built in the old town during the Seljuk period in the 13th century. There is also a “broken minaret” that was originally built as a church but has been renovated over the centuries, dating back to the Ottoman Empire.
Furthermore, the area around Antalya is also famous for its beautiful scenery. Known as the “Turkish Riviera,” it is home to many luxury resorts. With its international airport, tourists from all over Europe and Turkey visit. It is a very attractive city that is not only the center of tourism but also a place to enjoy tourism.
If you visit Antalya, why not visit nearby Aspendos? Because the Roman theater here is preserved in almost perfect condition. From the front row to the last row, the arch-shaped corridors of that time are still preserved on the upper floor. This theater can accommodate 15,000 people and is still in operation. I was surprised to learn that it is also used for concerts and other events.
“Ancient Roman theaters can be found from Europe to North Africa, but few are as well-preserved as the theater in Aspendos. You never know until you enter. Please be amazed by its grandeur and beauty.” (Nakatani World Air Service)
■2: Bodrum
Bodrum, located on the Aegean Sea, is known as one of Turkey’s major tourist destinations and has also functioned as a commercial center since ancient times. In the Middle Ages, it flourished as a fortress city of the Crusaders.
The Bodrum Castle, built by the Knights of St. John, is located on a hill overlooking the marina where cruise ships and yachts dock. It is said that the stone of Mausolus’ tomb, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world (built in the 4th century BC), was used as construction material.
In the narrow alleys of the old town, white-walled houses line up, and as you walk, you can feel as if you are in a Greek town.
“Mausolus’s Mausoleum was originally 42 meters high and 123 meters in circumference. It was destroyed by the Crusaders in 1402, and only the foundation remains. A reconstruction model is exhibited in the ruins. Let’s compare the selected wonders of the world with the real base.” (Nakatani World Air Service)
■3: Rhodes
Rhodes Island, off the coast of Turkey, is part of Greece and is connected to Marmaris on the Aegean coast by a regular ferry. The old town spreads out next to the harbor. When you pass through the magnificent gate of the castle, you will be surrounded by the medieval world.
This island was the headquarters of the Knights of St. John, who actively participated in the Crusades. For 200 years until the island was handed over to the Ottoman Empire, they built a magnificent cityscape. The buildings from that time, including the city walls, are still well preserved.
Walking down Ippoton Street, lined with houses of the knights from various countries and the palace of the knights’ commander, you can enjoy a fantastic journey through time and space.
“Rhodes Island is closer to Turkey than mainland Greece. Due to its geographical conditions and historical status as part of the Ottoman Empire, you can still see mosques and markets with Turkish names. Why not take a walk through the historical city full of history?” (Nakatani World Air Service)
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In this article, we introduce cities and islands along the Aegean Sea in Turkey that you should definitely visit. It will undoubtedly be a wonderful journey inviting you to ancient Greece, Rome, and the medieval world.
Authored by Atsushi Inami