Antalya: A Tapestry of History, Culture, and Art

Antalya, often dubbed the “Pearl of the Mediterranean,” is a vibrant city on Turkey’s southwestern coast, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and dynamic cultural scene. From ancient civilizations to modern-day tourism, Antalya has been a melting pot of influences, leaving an indelible mark on its character.

A Brief Timeline of Antalya’s Rulers

Antalya, throughout its long history, has been controlled by a succession of empires and civilizations:

• Pre-historic Times: Evidence of human habitation dates back to the early Paleolithic age.
• Bronze Age: Inhabitants included the Milyae and Termilae.
• Hittite Period: The area was known as Lukka.
• Lydian Kingdom: From the 7th century BC until 546 BC.
• Achaemenid Persian Empire: From 546 BC until Alexander the Great’s conquest around 334 BC.
• Macedonian Empire (Alexander the Great and his successors): After Alexander’s death, the region was contested by his generals, eventually coming under the rule of the Kingdom of Pergamon.
• Roman Empire: In 133 BC, the last king of Pergamon bequeathed his kingdom to the Roman Republic, and Antalya (then known as Attaleia) became part of the Roman province of Asia.
• Byzantine Empire: Following the division of the Roman Empire, Antalya remained part of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire.
• Seljuk Turks: From the late 11th and early 12th centuries onwards, the area was repeatedly contested and eventually conquered by the Seljuk Turks in the early 13th century.
• Beylik of Teke: After the decline of the Seljuks, Antalya became the capital of the Beylik of Teke.
• Kingdom of Cyprus: Briefly occupied Antalya between 1361 and 1373.
• Ottoman Empire: The area was eventually incorporated into the Ottoman Empire under Murad II in 1432, with final consolidation in the late 15th century. Ottoman rule persisted until the empire’s collapse after World War I.
• Italian Occupation: Briefly occupied by Italian forces after WWI (1919-1921).
• Republic of Turkey: Since the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923, Antalya has been part of modern Turkey.

The Persian Empire dominated the region where Antalya is now located.

Specifically, the Achaemenid Empire, often referred to as the First Persian Empire, conquered the Kingdom of Lydia (which encompassed the area of modern Antalya) after the Battle of Sardis in 546 BC. This brought Antalya and the surrounding regions of Lycia and Pamphylia under Persian rule. The region around Antalya was under Persian (Achaemenid Empire) domination for approximately 213 years, from around 546 BC to 333 BC.

However, Persian rule in this area was ended by Alexander the Great around 334 BC, who conquered the cities one by one, bringing them under Macedonian control.

Antalya’s Storied History

The history of Antalya stretches back millennia, with evidence of human settlement dating to the Stone Age. However, the city’s formal foundation is attributed to Attalus II Philadelphus, King of Pergamon, around 150 BC. He established the city as a naval base, naming it Attaleia after himself. This marked the beginning of its Hellenistic period, during which it flourished as a significant port.

In 133 BC, Attaleia, along with the rest of the Kingdom of Pergamon, was bequeathed to the Roman Republic. Under Roman rule, the city continued to prosper, becoming a vital hub for trade and culture in the province of Pamphylia. Notable Roman structures, such as Hadrian’s Gate (built for Emperor Hadrian’s visit in 130 AD) and the Roman Hıdırlık Tower, still stand today, testament to this era’s grandeur. Christianity also took root early in Antalya, with St. Paul and St. Barnabas visiting the city during their missionary journeys.

Following the decline of the Roman Empire, Antalya fell under Byzantine control. It remained an important Byzantine port for centuries, though it faced intermittent Arab raids. The city’s strategic location made it a coveted prize, leading to periods of both prosperity and conflict.

The Seljuk Turks conquered Antalya in 1207 AD under Sultan Gıyaseddin Keyhüsrev I. This marked a significant turning point, introducing Islamic culture and architecture. The iconic Yivliminare Mosque (Fluted Minaret) and the Karatay Medrese are prominent examples of Seljuk artistry. Under Seljuk rule, Antalya continued its role as a major trading port, connecting Anatolia with the Mediterranean world.

After the Seljuk Sultanate’s fragmentation, Antalya briefly became the capital of an independent principality (Tekeoğulları Beylik) before being incorporated into the Ottoman Empire in 1423. The Ottomans further developed the city, maintaining its commercial importance and adding to its architectural heritage. Antalya remained an integral part of the Ottoman Empire until its dissolution after World War I.

In the early 20th century, following the Turkish War of Independence, Antalya became part of the newly established Republic of Turkey in 1923. Since then, it has transformed into one of Turkey’s leading tourist destinations, blending its ancient past with modern development.

The Origin of Its Name

The name “Antalya” directly derives from its ancient founder, Attalus II Philadelphus, King of Pergamon. He named the city Attaleia (Ancient Greek: Ἀττάλεια). Over centuries, through various linguistic transformations and pronunciations, particularly during the Byzantine and Seljuk periods, “Attaleia” evolved into “Adalya” and eventually “Antalya,” the name we know today. The consistency of the name’s root across different eras highlights the enduring legacy of its founder.

Characteristics of Antalya

Antalya’s characteristics are a fascinating blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and modern vibrancy:

• Geographical Splendor: Nestled between the majestic Taurus Mountains and the azure waters of the Mediterranean Sea, Antalya boasts a breathtaking landscape. Its long coastline is dotted with sandy beaches (like Lara and Konyaaltı), dramatic cliffs, and picturesque bays. The region is also home to stunning waterfalls (Düden and Kurşunlu) and ancient caves (Karain).
• Climate: Antalya enjoys a typical Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, rainy winters, making it an attractive destination year-round. This climate supports lush vegetation, including citrus groves and palm trees.
• Tourism Hub: It is Turkey’s primary international tourism destination, attracting millions of visitors annually. Its infrastructure is highly developed, offering a wide range of hotels, resorts, and tourist facilities.
• Agricultural Heartland: Beyond tourism, Antalya is a significant agricultural region, particularly known for its citrus fruits, cotton, and greenhouse cultivation.
• Historical Richness: The city is a living museum, with historical sites from Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman periods. The old city, Kaleiçi, with its narrow winding streets, historic houses, and ancient harbor, is a testament to this layered past.
• Modernity and Growth: Antalya is a rapidly growing city with a modern infrastructure, including a large international airport, shopping malls, and universities. It successfully balances its historical preservation efforts with contemporary urban development.
• Cultural Diversity: Due to its history as a crossroads of civilizations and its current status as a global tourist destination, Antalya exhibits a rich cultural diversity. This is reflected in its cuisine, festivals, and daily life.

Art in Antalya

Antalya’s artistic landscape is as diverse as its history, encompassing ancient craftsmanship, traditional Turkish arts, and a burgeoning contemporary scene.

• Ancient and Classical Art: The region is rich in archaeological sites that reveal the artistic prowess of ancient civilizations. The Antalya Museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, including exquisite Roman sculptures from Perge, Sidetheatre masks, and sarcophagi adorned with intricate carvings. These pieces demonstrate a high level of artistic skill in stone carving, mosaic work, and pottery.
• Seljuk and Ottoman Art: The Seljuk and Ottoman periods introduced distinct Islamic artistic traditions. Seljuk architecture, characterized by its geometric patterns, intricate tile work, and monumental portals, is evident in structures like the Yivliminare Mosque and the Karatay Medrese. Ottoman art brought forth elegant calligraphy, miniature painting, decorative ceramics, and the refined aesthetics of mosque architecture. Traditional Turkish handicrafts, such as carpet weaving, ceramics, and copperware, continue to be practiced and sold in Antalya’s markets.
• Contemporary Art Scene: In recent decades, Antalya has seen a rise in its contemporary art scene. The city hosts numerous art galleries, exhibitions, and cultural centers that showcase the works of local and national artists. Painting, sculpture, photography, and digital art are all part of this vibrant landscape. The Antalya Culture and Arts Center (AKM) is a key venue for various artistic events, including exhibitions and performances. Public art installations can also be found throughout the city, adding to its modern aesthetic.

Music in Antalya

Music in Antalya reflects the broader Turkish musical heritage, with influences from its diverse historical past and a growing appreciation for contemporary genres.

• Traditional Turkish Music: Folk music (Türk Halk Müziği) remains popular, often featuring instruments like the saz (long-necked lute), kemençe (fiddle), and various percussion instruments. These melodies often tell stories of Anatolian life, love, and nature. Classical Turkish music (Türk Sanat Müziği), with its intricate makam (modal) system and rich vocal traditions, is also appreciated, often performed in concerts and cultural events.
• Mediterranean and International Influences: Given its coastal location and strong tourism industry, Antalya’s music scene also incorporates Mediterranean and international sounds. You can find venues playing pop, rock, jazz, and electronic music. Many hotels and resorts feature live music performances catering to diverse tastes.
• Festivals and Events: Antalya hosts several music festivals throughout the year. The International Antalya Piano Festival is a prominent event that attracts renowned pianists from around the world, showcasing classical and contemporary piano music. Other festivals may feature traditional Turkish music, jazz, or pop concerts, contributing to the city’s lively cultural calendar.
• Local Talent: The city has a growing community of local musicians and bands, performing in various venues, from cozy cafes to larger concert halls. Music education is also gaining prominence, fostering new talent.

The oldest part of Antalya

The oldest part of Antalya is undoubtedly Kaleiçi, which literally translates to “inside the castle.” This historic district forms the heart of the modern city and is nestled around the old Roman harbor. Its history dates back to the very foundation of Antalya (then Attaleia) by King Attalus II of Pergamon in the 2nd century BC. For centuries, the entire city of Antalya was confined within the formidable walls of Kaleiçi, serving as a vital port and a strategic stronghold for various civilizations, including the Romans, Byzantines, Seljuks, and Ottomans.

Walking through Kaleiçi today is like stepping back in time, as its narrow, cobblestone streets are lined with beautifully preserved houses that showcase a blend of Roman, Byzantine, Seljuk, and Ottoman architectural styles. Iconic landmarks such as Hadrian’s Gate, the Yivliminare Mosque, the Kesik Minaret (Broken Minaret), and the Hıdırlık Tower all stand within or immediately adjacent to Kaleiçi, serving as tangible reminders of its layered past. These structures, some dating back to the 2nd century AD, highlight Kaleiçi’s continuous habitation and importance throughout Antalya’s long and rich history.