Kekova at Wayfaring Travel Guide

Oct21

Kekova

Published by misha in Adventure, Cities, Europe, Fishing, Kayaking, Monuments, Photos, Relaxing, Sailing, Scuba Diving, Sightseeings, Snorkeling, Swimming, Travel Stories, Turkey

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In one of the most attractive spots on Turkey‘s Turquoise Coast is the lovely Mediterranean island of Kekova, As just 4.5 sq km, the island is uninhabited but lies in a bay close to the mainland. On the north shore of the island are ruins of ancient Apollonia, dating back to the 5th century BC. The reason these ruins attract so many tourists is that they lie partially beneath the waves, an amazing sunken city in the clear blue waters of the bay. Photo by: JMcD&SW

kekova island

The city was submerged by a series of earthquakes over the centuries. Today marble columns and arches rise into the water, and stone steeps lead down into the ocean floor. You can explore the sunken ruins by kayak, or take a ferry trip to view them, as swimming is no longer allowed there. But west on the shore of the Bay of Tersane, swimming is permitted and this is an evocative and lovely place for a picnic. Photo by: Hendo101

kekova island

Apollonia was part of Lycia, an important kingdom in this region. The Lycains traded with Ancient greeks and as trade increased, so did piracy. For that reason, many harbours and port, featuring Kekova, were fortified. While you glide over the blue water, you can spot remains of buildings and wall beneath you boat, a rather unsettling experience.! Photo by: mebooyou

kekova island

On the mainland, near Kekova are some more fascinating ruins, those of ancient Simena, dating back to the 4th century BC. Today the fishing village of Kale stands on the site. A medieval castle sits atop the little hill and from there you can get a good view of the ruins. The ruined fortress, Simena Castle, features the pointed arches of the Lycian. Photo by: Infinitaintringulis

kekova island

When to go: April to November. Population: Uninhabited. How to get there: By boat from Kas or Kaikan. You should know: Due to visitors taking home souvenirs from the ruins, it is no longer permitted to swim among the ruins of Apollonia. However, there are other ruins close by which can be explored from the water. Photo by: Lvovsky