Kekova Island, Antalya

Kekova Island is located near the town of Demre in the province of Antalya, Turkey. It faces the villages of Kaleköy and Üçağız and spans an area of approximately 4.5 square kilometers. The island can be accessed through private boats dedicated to its transportation.

Regarded as one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Antalya and Turkey, Kekova Island is often dubbed the "capital of tourism" in Turkey. The island boasts a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural treasures that mesmerize all its visitors, making it a popular destination for tourists from both within Turkey and beyond.

Throughout its long history, Kekova has been home to various civilizations. It once hosted the ancient Lycian civilization dating back to prehistoric times and later accommodated the Roman civilization, followed by the Seljuk and Ottoman empires.

In the northern part of the island, partially submerged ruins of an ancient town, destroyed by an earthquake in the 2nd century, can be found. Additionally, in the northwestern part, there are remnants of a Byzantine church. The island also houses a castle with a theater carved into the rocks and several old Ottoman mosques.

With its rich history and captivating sites, Kekova Island continues to enchant and attract tourists, leaving them in awe of its cultural heritage and natural beauty.