 |
|
|
Looking for more
Beachcomber Pete
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
As one of the oldest settlements in Turkey, Kusadasi has had many different inhabitants. It was settled in 3000 BC by the Leleges people. The Aeolians, Ionians, Lydians, Sardis, Persians, Greeks, Anatolians and Hellens all took their turn ruling it before the BC time period was over. Kusadasi has much religious sentiment for Christian travelers. This city was referred to as "Ania" in Christian era references. Both St. John the Evangelist and Mary, the mother of Jesus, lived here for a brief time. Being a coastal area, the city was also a prime target of pirates in the Middle Ages. The Turks began ruling in 1086, later losing the city in the Crusades. Ottomans took over reign of Kusadasi in 1413.
After being affected by several other wars through the Middle Ages, Kusadasi Turkey was restored. It was occupied in the last two centuries by Greek and Italian soldiers, but Turkey took over again in 1922. Although the city has been restored and rebuilt in many areas, some of its original beauty and architecture remains. Remnants of the Panionium can be seen outside of the city near Priene. It was the sanctuary meant to house Poseidon in Greek mythology and is a sacred ground today. Yilanci Burnu is another area where ancient remains can be seen. Walls that were part of the original settlement of Neopolis can be seen. Agamemnon's refuge, which is called Pygale, can be seen about three kilometers north of the city. It has not been excavated yet, so it is still somewhat rough and original.
Kusadasi is well-known by cruise travelers, as the city is a main port for several world cruise ships. It is also the point of entry for cruise travelers who are destined for Ephesus. From a first glance when arriving in the main port, it wouldn't seem that this modern-looking city had such a diverse past. Notice the small cafes and shops along the walkways; they were once old houses, but have now been converted. New buildings that were constructed in the 1980s include hotels, condos and timeshares. To see the historical part of this European-style beach community, it is best to venture beyond the shoreline up into the hills.
To enjoy some of the local sights and culture, visit the Guvercin Ada. This is a well-known and popular area with an old castle and several beaches, both public and private.
On one of the private beaches there is a small cafe, which overlooks the bay of Kusadasi. This is one of the most spectacular places in the city to dine, due to its view, location, food quality and service. There are several other interesting and scenic beaches, including the famous Ladies Beach. This location gained its name because it was once a female-only bathing beach. The ocean is not the only place to enjoy swimming in Kusadasi. The city also boasts several aquatic parks, complete with waterfalls, water slides and other fun water activities. The climate is mild and Mediterranean, so most months of the year are optimal for swimming. December through March have colder temperatures and are better months for sightseeing. |
|
|
|
Not what you were looking for? Search Beachcomber Pete
|
|
|
Periodic issues- Free advice and suggestions for making your next travel adventure more enjoyable.
