Kekova Island and the Sunken City

Description

An island and special protection area famous for the ruins of the Lycian city, partially submerged underwater, located off the coast of Demre.

Story

Kekova Island and the sunken city on its northern coast offer perhaps one of the most impressive combinations of the Antalya shores: the turquoise sea, the silhouette of the island leaning against the cliffs, and the traces of ancient walls visible just below the water. This settlement, referred to as Dolichiste in ancient sources, was one of the coastal cities of the Lycian civilization. The event that changed the fate of the city was a major earthquake that occurred in the 2nd century A.D.; the stairs, street traces, and wall foundations that we see today while gliding over in boats belong to structures that were partially submerged due to that earthquake. As one moves over the sunken city, the stone walls extending parallel to the shore, the steps leading down to the sea, and the door thresholds just beneath the water in some places evoke a life submerged in water for the visitor. Throughout the Middle Ages, the region remained under Byzantine rule, and a church and a small shipyard structure were built in the Tersane Bay on the northwest of the island. Over time, although Kekova's vibrancy diminished due to pirate attacks, changes in trade routes, and the rise of new ports, the island and its surroundings were never completely forgotten. In the 20th century, the region once again drew the attention of both archaeologists and sailors with its natural beauty and underwater remnants. Today, Kekova is one of the rare coastal strips that has partially preserved its virginity thanks to the lack of land access and its status as a special environmental protection area. During the midday hours when the sun's rays fall directly into the water, the stone walls of the sunken city seem to emerge; anyone leaning over the boat's edge and looking into the water feels as if they are reading the lines of a centuries-old story beneath the gentle waves. In this respect, Kekova is not only a natural wonder but also an archaeological tale written together by water and time.

Visit Tips

• Since Kekova can only be reached by boat tours or private boats, it is advisable to make reservations in advance for tours departing from Demre, Kaş, or Üçağız.
• Swimming and diving in the sunken city area are restricted to certain zones due to conservation rules, so the boat captain's warnings should be heeded.
• Since the sun is very intense in the summer months, be sure to have a hat, sunscreen, and light clothing with you.
• Tours are generally conducted between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM; for a more peaceful experience, early season or weekdays can be preferred.

Photos

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