KALEİÇİ ( OLD TOWN)

Antalya, meaning "Land of Attalos," was founded by Attalos II. After the end of the Kingdom of Pergamon (133 BC), the city remained independent for a time, but later fell into the hands of pirates. In 77 BC, it was incorporated into Roman territory by Commander Servilius Isauricus. In 67 BC, it served as a base for Pompey's fleet. Hadrian's visit to Attaleia in 130 AD contributed to the city's development. During Byzantine rule, Attaleia was a bishopric center, and after falling into Turkish hands, it experienced significant growth. Because the modern city is built on top of the ancient settlement, very few ancient remains are found in Antalya. The first visible remains are a section of the harbor breakwater, considered the old harbor, and the walls surrounding the harbor. The Hadrian's Gate, restored on the part of the city walls outside the park, is one of Antalya's most beautiful ancient monuments. While it is known that Attaleia, like all ancient cities, had structures such as temples, agoras, and theaters, it is impossible to pinpoint their locations today. Kaleiçi (the old town) is surrounded by inner and outer horseshoe shaped walls, a large part of which has been destroyed. The walls are a joint work of the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods. The walls have 80 towers. Within the walls are approximately 3000 houses with tiled roofs. The characteristic structures of these houses not only provide insight into Antalya's architectural history but also best reflect the lifestyle, traditions, and customs of the region. In 1972, Antalya's inner harbor and Kaleiçi district were designated a "protected historical site" by the "High Council of Real Estate, Ancient Monuments and Historical Sites" due to their unique character. The Ministry of Tourism was awarded the Golden Apple Tourism Oscar by FIJET (International Federation of Tourism Writers) on April 28, 1984, for its restoration work on the "Antalya Kaleiçi Complex". Today, Kaleiçi has become an entertainment center with its hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and bars.