🚗 The Journey: From Antalya to the Mountains

Starting from Antalya city center, my journey took approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. As I moved away from the city and into the mountain roads, the scenery began to change, the roads narrowed, and the curves increased. Honestly, driving became a bit nerve-wracking at times. When snowfall started, the excitement—and slight anxiety—grew even more.

While Antalya was enjoying temperatures between 15–20°C, it dropped to -1°C as I approached Ağlasun. Fortunately, it wasn’t a harsh snowstorm; instead, the snow fell gently, making the journey more scenic despite the challenges.

🎒 Before You Go: Useful Tips

If you’re planning to visit Sagalassos, here are a few helpful tips:

• Wear comfortable, non-slip sports shoes
• Choose flexible clothing like sweatpants or comfortable trousers
• Always check the weather forecast beforehand
• Download the Museum Pass app on your phone

The site is quite large and uneven, and due to its high altitude, weather conditions can be harsher than expected.

🏛️ Sagalassos: A City Like an Eagle’s Nest

Sagalassos is located on the slopes of the Akdağ Mountains at an altitude of approximately 1500–1700 meters above sea level. From the very first moment you enter, you can immediately notice how well-preserved the site is.

Built on steep terrain, the city resembles an eagle’s nest. Wherever you look, you are greeted with breathtaking panoramic views. The influence of Roman architecture is clearly visible in almost every structure.

✨ Highlights of the Site

Some must-see structures in Sagalassos include:

• Temple of Apollo Klarios
• Hadrian’s Fountain (still flowing with water, which is truly impressive)
• The Ancient Theater (offering stunning views)

Hadrian’s Fountain, still functioning today, is one of the features that makes Sagalassos stand out among other ancient cities. The theater is also remarkable in both location and atmosphere, although I think the entrance area could use some cleaning.

🕰️ Tracing History

Although the history of Sagalassos dates back much further, the city experienced its golden age during the Roman period. In the 13th century, due to political and military developments in the region, life in the city came to an end. Today, as you walk among the ruins, you can still feel the grandeur of its past.

💜 When to Visit? Lavender Season!

If you’re planning this trip, here’s a special tip: try to visit in May.

During this time, the lavender fields in the surrounding region begin to come to life. This means you won’t just experience a historical journey, but also witness the most beautiful shades of purple. Walking through lavender fields, taking photos, and enjoying their soothing scent adds a completely different dimension to the trip.

🧖‍♀️ A Relaxing Escape: Thermal Retreat

The region is not only famous for its history but also for its thermal hotels. That’s why I recommend planning at least a 1–2 day stay instead of a day trip.

After a day of exploration, relaxing in thermal waters makes the experience even more memorable.

🌿 Final Thoughts

Sagalassos is not just an ancient city; it is a unique destination where nature, history, and tranquility come together. This stop, recommended by İlber Ortaylı, truly deserves a place on your travel list.

If you ever find yourself in Burdur, don’t leave without experiencing this mesmerizing atmosphere.

Every time I see this building, I can’t hide my amazement. As all locals know, it remained abandoned for many years, surrounded by iron bars, in a dilapidated state, with its surroundings overgrown with weeds. The restoration process also took a long time. Witnessing its transformation from its old state to the present was an emotional experience for me.

The History of Korkut Mosque

The Broken Minaret, also known as Korkut Mosque or Hünkâr Mosque, is a multi-layered historical structure. It was originally built as a Roman temple in the 2nd century AD, serving the pagan faiths of the time with statues of gods and altars inside.

When the Roman Empire adopted Christianity in the 5th and 6th centuries, the temple was converted into a church. The pagan statues were removed and replaced with semi-domed prayer areas called apses.

In the 13th century, after the Seljuks captured Antalya, the building was converted into a mosque, with the addition of a mihrab and a minaret, while Christian elements were removed. In the early 19th century, a major fire caused significant damage, and the upper part of the minaret collapsed. The building has been known among locals as the “Broken Minaret” ever since.

Antalya’s Hagia Sophia

The Broken Minaret may not be as large, old, or magnificent as Hagia Sophia. However, both structures impress visitors with their grandeur, serenity, and the dignity carried through the centuries. They have hosted multiple religions and cultures and contain countless stories and secrets within their walls.

Despite earthquakes, fires, and destructions over time, both buildings have endured, standing as powerful witnesses to history.

Antalya’s city center hosts one of the most unique and remarkable structures you can see. Don’t just admire it from afar; step inside and explore the extraordinary blend of Roman-Hellenistic and Seljuk architecture. You will be captivated by the beauty of history and aesthetics.Click for location.

Today, I would like to share detailed information about this historic structure, which is very well known by people living in Antalya and also attracts great curiosity from foreign tourists who come to see it. On a sunny morning in Antalya, when you walk towards Kaleiçi, it is almost impossible not to pass by this magnificent gate. Even though I have lived in Antalya for a long time, one day I asked myself a simple question: Why was this structure built? When I started searching for the answer, I came across some very interesting historical information.

What is Hadrian’s Gate?

Hadrian's Gate was built in 130 AD to honor the visit of the Roman Emperor Hadrian to the city. At that time, Antalya was known as Attaleia, and it was one of the most important port cities of the Roman Empire.

When the city’s administrators learned that the emperor would visit the city, they commissioned this magnificent structure to honor him and gain his favor. The structure we see today reflects the power and grandeur of Roman architecture. Nearly 1,900 years later, it still stands impressively.

Architectural Features of Hadrian’s Gate

By examining the Three Gates, we can also better understand Roman architecture. This structure, which has stood for centuries, is one of the most important works of its time thanks to its fine craftsmanship, decorations, and artistic details.

Three-Arched Design

One of the most striking features of the gate is its three-arched entrance system. This design resembles Roman triumphal arches. The central arch was reserved for the emperor’s passage.

Marble Columns

The columns on both sides of the gate were built in the Corinthian order. The detailed stone carvings on the upper parts of these columns reflect the elegance and refinement of Roman architecture.

Reliefs and Decorations

The gate features plant motifs, geometric decorations, and stone reliefs. These elements demonstrate the sophistication and artistic mastery of Roman art.

Roman Stone Road

The stone-paved road passing beneath the gate dates back to the Roman period and is the original road. Even today, visitors can walk along this historic path as they pass through the gate.

Where is Hadrian’s Gate?

Hadrian’s Gate is located in the Kaleiçi district of Muratpaşa, in Antalya, one of Türkiye’s most famous tourism centers. Although there are several entrances to Kaleiçi, I recommend entering the old town through this gate first.

With its impressive architecture, traditional Ottoman houses, narrow streets, charming hotels, historic buildings, and museums, Kaleiçi truly represents the soul of Antalya.

The Importance of Hadrian’s Gate for Tourism

Although it was built centuries ago, this gate is still one of the most visited landmarks in the city. The importance of this Roman structure can easily be understood from the number of visitors it attracts.

Why is it so important?

• It is one of the best-preserved Roman monuments in Antalya and represents nearly 2,000 years of history.
• Although Kaleiçi has several entrances, it serves as a symbolic gateway to the old city.
• It is one of the most popular spots for photography in Antalya.
• It is one of the favorite historical attractions for both domestic and international tourists.

Visiting Hadrian’s Gate

Hadrian's Gate is an open historical monument that can be visited at any time of the day, and there is no entrance fee to pass through the gate.

The best times to visit are usually early in the morning or at sunset. During these hours, the crowds are smaller and the lighting is perfect for photography.

Tourists who visit the gate usually follow this route:

1.     Hadrian's Gate

2.     Kaleiçi streets

3.     Kaleiçi Marina

4.     Historic Antalya houses

5.     Kaleiçi museums

This route offers an ideal travel plan for discovering the historical atmosphere of Antalya.

Hıdırlık Tower is located at the southern end of Karaalioğlu Parkı in Antalya’s Muratpaşa district. Standing on cliffs overlooking the sea, it occupies a uniquely impressive spot both visually and historically.

History of Hıdırlık Tower

The structure was built in the 2nd century AD during the Roma İmparatorluğu. Originally constructed with a square plan, it was later transformed into a cylindrical tower. Throughout history, its function changed over time. During the Bizans İmparatorluğu period, it is known to have been used as a military outpost.

Possible purposes:

• Watchtower and defensive structure
• Possibly a lighthouse
• Theories suggesting it may have been a monumental tomb

Architectural Features

• Approximately 14 meters high
• Lower section: square base; upper section: cylindrical body
• Thick stone walls suggest defensive use
• The upper platform is suitable for observation and viewing the scenery

This architectural combination shows that the structure carries both monumental and military characteristics.

The Mystery of Hıdırlık Tower

The tower’s exact function is still uncertain. According to archaeologists, three main theories stand out:

1.     Lighthouse

2.     Watchtower

3.     Monumental tomb

This uncertainty has increased its mystique and inspired many local legends.

The Legend of the Light from the Sea

According to a story told among locals, in the early years after the tower was built, merchant ships arriving on the Mediterranean coast would see a strange moving light in the sea at night. Sometimes bright, sometimes faint, sometimes flickering, sailors believed the light came from the tower. Yet when they climbed it, they found no light and no guard inside.

One night, a soldier decided to keep watch in the tower to solve the mystery. At midnight the light appeared again, and he went down to the shore to follow it… but both the soldier and the light vanished. The next morning, officials found strange salt crystals on the walls. The legend says soldiers in later centuries saw the same light many times, but its cause was never explained. For this reason, the tower was once considered a sign of “sea spirits,” and entering it at night was forbidden.

Best Time to Visit

• Sunset: Ideal for views and photography
• Spring & autumn: More comfortable temperatures
• Early morning: Fewer crowds, better light for photos
• Click for location

Tips for Photographers

• Shooting from a low angle makes the tower look more majestic.
• Silhouette shots with the sea as background create dramatic results.
• Sunset light enhances the texture of the stone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Hıdırlık Tower ticketed?
No, it can be viewed free of charge from the outside.

Can you go inside?
It is generally not open to visitors; it is viewed from outside.

How old is it?
It is estimated to be about 1,800 years old.

The Golden Age of Street Games

Hide and seek, blind man’s buff, “don’t touch the ground,” jump rope, hopscotch, ball games, volleyball, hand-slap games, kites, and playing house… If you mastered these, you could join any group and make friends easily. The streets were our real playground; we felt the joy of being children most when we stepped outside. I won’t say we were the last generation to play in the streets, because even today you can still hear children’s voices playing in some neighborhoods.

Toys Then and Now

Today’s toy variety is far greater than in our generation. Almost every cartoon character now has its own toy. Back in our time, everything could become a toy: papers, cloths, pencils… “Pasos,” small plastic pieces resembling marble games, were essential parts of childhood competition. Football cards were part of that world too. Today’s toy industry isn’t uniform either; dolls representing different body types and physical characteristics show how diversity has become more valued.

About the Antalya Toy Museum

These reflections were inspired by a place I visited last weekend: the Antalya Toy Museum. Opened on April 23, 2011, in Kaleiçi under the consultancy of Sunay Akın, it is known as Türkiye’s third toy museum after Istanbul and Izmir. The collection includes nearly 3,000 antique toys dating from the 1860s to the 1980s.

At the museum, you can see toys from many countries such as Japan, Russia, the United States, and Germany. Each one reflects the culture, technology, and lifestyle of its era. As you look through the display cases, it feels as if you’re taking a short journey into the past, into the world of the children who once played with them.

The Emotional Value of Toys

The materials used to make toys are incredibly diverse: wood, yarn, fabric, paper… Whether big or small, they all carry colorful, creative, and joyful emotions. Even though they are inanimate, they hold a huge place in a child’s life. I still remember the “hairdressing experiments” I did on my brown, curly-haired doll  I washed, brushed, and cut her hair until she eventually ended up bald.

Culture, History, and Toys

As you walk among the colorful glass display cases, you can also see toys representing different regions of Türkiye: cars, animal figures, houses, airplanes, trains, and horse-drawn carriages. The technological developments and social conditions of every era are clearly reflected even in these small objects. The Antalya Toy Museum doesn’t just exhibit toys; it presents the childhoods of the past like a nostalgic time capsule.

Visitor Information (Suggested Section)

📍 Location: Antalya / Kaleiçi
🕒 Average visit duration: 45–60 minutes
👨‍👩‍👧 Suitable for: Families, nostalgia lovers, collectors

Conclusion
If you ever find yourself in Antalya, be sure to add this museum to your list. Sometimes, standing in front of a display case and looking at an old toy is the shortest path back to your childhood.

Before describing the museum itself, it is important to mention one of the names behind this valuable institution: Suna Kıraç. We lost her in 2020. She served for many years as Vice Chair of the Board of Koç Holding and was a distinguished philanthropist who left a lasting mark through her contributions to museology, the education of Turkish children, science, and culture. Together with her husband, İnan Kıraç, she undertook numerous significant projects dedicated to Turkey’s cultural heritage.

Operating under the Koç Foundation since 1996, the Mediterranean Civilizations Research Center has made important contributions to culture, art, and academic research for nearly 30 years through scientific projects, publications, and exhibitions. In 2016, the center was restructured and expanded into a more comprehensive institution.

An Experience Intertwined with Culture in Kaleiçi

For me, the presence of such a museum within the enchanting atmosphere of Kaleiçi is also a source of pride for the local community. The museum not only introduces visitors to Antalya’s culture, civilization, and way of life, but also offers the opportunity to closely observe the traditional architectural style of Kaleiçi houses. Through its temporary exhibitions, it continues to present art, history, and culture to the people of Antalya.

The History of the Suna & İnan Kıraç Museum

The museum buildings were purchased by Suna & İnan Kıraç between 1993 and 1995 and, following an extensive restoration process, were opened to visitors as a private museum. The restoration was carried out by Dr. Sinan Genim, and the museum officially opened on May 18, 1996.

The main objective of this project is to document Kaleiçi and traditional Turkish culture and to pass this heritage on to future generations.

Museum Buildings and Sections

The Traditional Antalya House

The main building of the museum is a classic, two-story, outward-sofa Antalya house dating back to the 19th century. The courtyard floor, decorated with pebbles collected from Konyaaltı Beach, creates a striking visual impression from the very first step.

On the second floor, scenes brought to life with wax figures depict the daily life of the people of Antalya in the past. These reconstructions help visitors form a direct and personal connection with the museum.

Scenes on display include:

• Coffee service
• Groom shaving
• Henna night

In the corridor section, you can see 19th-century household items and read texts written about Antalya by famous travelers. The period clothing, carpets and kilims, furniture, and ceilings adorned with wooden slats convey the living conditions of the past in a very powerful way.

Aya Yorgi (St. George) Church

The second structure, accessed through the courtyard, is the Aya Yorgi Church, an Orthodox Greek church. An inscription on the eastern entrance reads:

“This Aya Yorgi Church existed from ancient times. When it fell into ruin, it was rebuilt by the Christians living in Antalya. Year 1863.”

After losing its congregation following the population exchange between Turkey and Greece in 1920, the church remained unused for many years. Due to neglect and being used as a storage space, much of its original wooden craftsmanship was lost. The building was purchased by Suna & İnan Kıraç in 1991 and has been used as an exhibition hall since 1996.

The interior of the church is decorated with shades of blue to symbolize heaven, featuring simple hand-painted motifs and plaster ornaments.

Today, this building hosts the history, culture, and art exhibition titled “Reflections of the Byzantine World.” The exhibition presents the cultural, artistic, and historical heritage of the Byzantine Empire through objects such as vases, plates, and pitchers, taking visitors on a journey through time.

Note: Exhibitions change periodically. The Reflections of the Byzantine World exhibition is open to visitors until May 31, 2026.

Visitor Information

Location: Antalya / Kaleiçi

Entrance Fee:

• Students: 30 TL
• Adults: 60 TL

Average Visiting Time: 30–45 minutes

The Suna & İnan Kıraç Museum is open to visitors every day between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM. It is closed on Mondays.

Dine in Antalya tip: If you start your Kaleiçi tour in the morning, you can visit the museum in a calmer and more peaceful atmosphere.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Kaleiçi has stone-paved streets, so comfortable shoes are recommended
• Summer afternoons can be quite hot
• Photography is allowed inside the museum
• The museum offers a quiet and tranquil atmosphere

Who Is It Suitable For?

✅ Culture and history enthusiasts
✅ Those who want to get to know Antalya more closely
✅ Visitors looking to enrich their Kaleiçi itinerary with a meaningful stop
✅ Travelers seeking a short yet impressive museum experience

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to visit the Suna & İnan Kıraç Museum?
On average, it takes between 30 and 45 minutes.

Is it suitable for children?
Yes, but the exhibition content is mainly aimed at adults. Younger children may have a shorter attention span.

Is Museum Pass (MüzeKart) valid?
No. Entry is available via card or cash payment.

Conclusion: A Must-See Stop in Kaleiçi

Overall, I really enjoyed the Suna & İnan Kıraç Museum. Although there are aspects that could be further developed, the Byzantine exhibition in the Aya Yorgi Church particularly impressed me. The richness of the Byzantine Empire in cultural terms was truly surprising.

If you find yourself in Kaleiçi, I highly recommend adding this special museum to your travel route.

Today, I am spending my time visiting Yivli Minaret, located in the historic Kaleiçi district in the center of Antalya. The minaret was commissioned by the Seljuk ruler Alaeddin Keykubad I between 1220 and 1237. Whether I see Yivli Minaret during the day or at night, it always evokes the same sense of admiration.

When viewed from Republic Square, the minaret immediately draws attention as it rises among shades of blue and green, wrapped in soft-toned orange bricks. This scene helps us understand why Yivli Minaret appears so frequently on Antalya’s postcards, local business logos, and tourism promotions. 

The “yivli,” or fluted, structure of the minaret is its most distinctive feature. Its body is formed by eight semi-cylindrical flutes, giving the structure an elegant, refined, and graceful appearance. Yivli Minaret is not only one of the earliest examples of fluted minarets in Anatolia, but also one of the most important symbols of 13th-century Seljuk architecture.

The body of the minaret is built of red brick, while its base is constructed from cut stone. Standing approximately 38 meters tall, the structure was originally adorned with turquoise faience tiles placed between the bricks to add visual richness and harmony.

According to a local legend, these turquoise tiles shimmered differently under sunlight and moonlight. Some sailors are even said to have used Yivli Minaret as a beacon for navigation, much like a lighthouse. Captivated by its beauty, people came to believe that turquoise brought abundance, wealth, and good fortune. Legend has it that thieves, thinking the tiles were more valuable than gold, stole them away. From that day on, it is said that the minaret lost its glow and never regained its former brilliance. Click here for detailed mosque information.

Yivli Minaret Mosque has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List since 2016. The Yivli Minaret Complex also includes the Atabey Armağan Madrasa, Ulucami Madrasa, Mevlevihane (Dervish Lodge), Yivli Minaret Bath, Nigar Hatun Mausoleum, and Zincir Kıran Mehmet Bey Mausoleum. Click here to go to the Yivli Minaret Mosque.

“Without a doubt, Antalya is the most beautiful place in the world.”

Atatürk also stayed in this house during his subsequent visits to Antalya in February 1931 and on February 18, 1935.

Architectural Features of the Museum

The museum building is a two-story structure with masonry stone walls. Although it was once used as the Governor’s Office, the building was prepared and presented to Atatürk after it was learned that he would be visiting Antalya.

The ground floor consists of a long entrance hall; to the right of the hall are a living room, a bedroom, a kitchen, and a bathroom. On the upper floor, there is a hall opening onto a balcony, a bedroom, a study room, a seating corner with traditional sofas, and an exhibition area displaying coins and stamps issued throughout the history of the Republic of Türkiye.

Atatürk’s 1930 Visit to Antalya

In March 1930, Atatürk was in İzmir. Due to the cold weather, he wished to rest for a while in Antalya’s mild climate. On March 4, 1930, he departed from İzmir and traveled through Aydın, Denizli, Isparta, and Burdur, arriving in Antalya at 4:00 PM on March 6, 1930.

Atatürk was welcomed with great enthusiasm. Cheers of “Welcome, long live Gazi!” echoed throughout the city. In response to the overwhelming public interest, Atatürk stepped onto the balcony of the mansion and greeted the people of Antalya.

A dinner was organized in his honor in the evening; however, the public continued to gather around the residence. After the dinner, Atatürk delivered a short speech addressing the people of Antalya.

On March 7, he visited Tophane Road, the Ice Factory, the Turkish Hearth (Türk Ocağı), the Hearth Library, cinemas, and various social venues, gaining detailed information about the city.

On March 8, Atatürk visited the Mursi Farm in Arapsuyu. As there was no road to Konyaaltı at the time, the journey was made by sea aboard the Rüstemiye ship. During this excursion, Atatürk enjoyed the Mediterranean coastline, visited the large waterfalls, and stopped at the Rumkuş area along Lara Road, where he watched the sea and gazed at the Beydağları Mountains for a long time. It was here that he uttered his famous words:

“Without a doubt, Antalya is the most beautiful place in the world.”

In line with his vision of Turkifying place names, he also instructed that the name Rumkuş be changed to Erenkuş.

Aspendos Visit and Cultural Heritage

On Sunday, March 9, Atatürk wished to visit the ancient city of Aspendos. Passing through Büyükbelkıs Village, he arrived in Aspendos amid enthusiastic public celebrations. The Director of the Antalya Museum, Mr. Fikret, served as his guide. Atatürk gave instructions for the restoration of the theater, one of the rarest examples of its kind in the world. On the return journey, he visited Osman Ağa’s citrus orchard.

On March 10, Atatürk spent time examining handwritten historical manuscripts and copies of the Qur’an at the Antalya Museum.
On March 11, he planned his upcoming domestic tours and chose to return via the Burdur land route instead of traveling by sea.
On March 12, Gazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk was bid farewell as he departed for Ankara, promising the people of Antalya that he would return.

True to his word, Atatürk revisited Antalya on January 26, 1931, and March 18, 1935. He wished to visit once more in 1938; however, his health no longer permitted it.

Transformation into a Museum

After Atatürk’s passing, the building was transferred to the Special Provincial Administration and was used for a period as an Evening Girls’ Vocational School. In 1952, it was handed over to the Ministry of Agriculture and served as the office of the Technical Agriculture Directorate. In 1984, the building was transferred to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism but was demolished due to the city’s new zoning plan.

A replica faithful to the original structure was rebuilt slightly further back by the Kepez Electricity Company, and in 1986, it was opened to the public as the Atatürk House and Museum.

Visiting Information

The Atatürk House is located very close to Kaleiçi (Old Town) and is only a few minutes’ walk from Karaalioğlu Park. The museum is open every day, free of charge, and can be visited between 08:30 AM and 5:00 PM. You can use this location to visit the Atatürk Museum.

Though some parts of Kaleiçi have been damaged or lost over time, the area is still surrounded by double-layered, horseshoe-shaped city walls extending from the inside out. These fortifications reflect the shared heritage of the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods. It is believed that there were approximately 80 bastions, nearly 3,000 tiled houses within the walls, and a tower every fifty steps near the outer walls.

In 1972, Kaleiçi and Antalya Marina were declared a Protected Site by the High Council of Real Estate Antiquities and Monuments. On April 28, 1984, the restoration project “Antalya Kaleiçi Complex,” carried out by the Ministry of Tourism, earned the Golden Apple Award, known as the Tourism Oscar, granted by FIJET (World Federation of Travel Journalists and Writers).

Today, Kaleiçi is one of Antalya’s most popular meeting points with its boutique hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, cafés, and vibrant nightlife.

Antalya, located on the Mediterranean coast in southwestern Türkiye, has historically served as one of Anatolia's gateways to the sea. As you walk through Kaleiçi’s narrow streets leading upward from the marina, you will encounter layers of history left by various civilizations.

Because Kaleiçi sits in the heart of Antalya, it can easily be explored in 2–3 hours. Within the same day, you can also visit Cumhuriyet Square, Işıklar Avenue, Güllük, the Atatürk Museum, the Toy Museum, and the Antalya City Museum—all within walking distance. If you wish, you can take the nostalgic tram from Cumhuriyet Square or Güllük for a short city tour.