06 July 2010 11:15
The Monumental History of Turkey
With a landscape rich with archaeological sites, and a long, prestigious past playing home to many ancient civilisations, holidays to Turkey offer so much more than typical beach destinations...
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Tourism in Turkey has been increasing massively over the past few years, to the point where it’ll soon be set to take over Spain as the No1 destination in Europe. The Turkish Lira also offers a better exchange rate than the Euro, so you’ll find there’s a bigger choice of cheap Holidays. All in all, it’s easy to see why this Eastern-inspired country is proving popular. Rather than your usual mix of sun, sand and sea, holidays to Turkey include an awe-inspiring array of sight-seeing opportunities.
Marmaris is one of the major resorts for holidays on the Lycian Coast of Turkey. Many visitors come here to enjoy the fabulous selection of restaurants, bars and nightclubs, or soak up the sun on the two long beaches nearby. However, the area also has its own historical landmark - Marmaris Castle. Even the site where it was built is important, as Alexander the Great conquered the original castle that stood here. The current one has only been here since 1522, but it’s been respectfully restored back to its original glory and also features a museum with artefacts found in the local area.
Continuing a little further east along the Lycian Coast, you’ll come to another top choice for holidays to Turkey – the wonderful resort of Dalyan. The town itself is nestled a little further inland, making it more traditional in character than some of the coastline villages. The historical highlight for holidays here is the ancient city of Kaunos. Located just outside Dalyan, this large site has a good number of ruins, including several temples, a theatre and large amphitheatre. As an indicator of just how far back Turkey’s history goes, this site has been standing for over 5,000 years!
While you’re in Dalyan, you simply must take a trip to see the Lycian Rock Tombs which lie between along the coast that connects the resort with Fethiye. Created as burial temples for ancient Lycian kings, these ornate structures were literally carved out of the rock face, and remain firmly embedded on the rocky cliffs overlooking the water.
If you’re into your history, Kusadasi may really take your attention when you’re looking at holidays to Turkey. Its real claim to fame is Ephesus, which was the Roman Empire’s second largest city. There are so many fascinating ruins here, the best of which is the 44,000 seat amphitheatre, second only to Rome’s very own Colosseum in its size and stature. With towering figures built into the stonework, the Library of Celsus is also a magnificent building which held much honour across the Empire for housing over 12,000 important scrolls.
Go history-hunting with cheap holidays to Turkey. Simply visit
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