Antalya is a charming coastal city in south-western Turkey, embracing the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. The history of Antalya, which has a rich history and cultural heritage since ancient times, dates back thousands of years.
The history of Antalya dates back to 1500 BC. During this period, it is known that tribes such as Lycians and Pamlians lived in the region. However, Antalya came under the rule of the Kingdom of Pergamon in the 2nd century BC. Later, the city, which came under the rule of the Roman Empire, became an important harbour city and took its name as "Attaleia".
In ancient times and throughout the Middle Ages, the region came under the rule of different civilisations such as Rome, Byzantium, Seljuk and Ottoman. Especially during the Byzantine period, the city was subjected to Arab raids many times and suffered significant destruction.
Antalya, which was conquered by the Seljuk Sultan Alaaddin Keykubat in the century, continued its existence as an important settlement centre during the Ottoman Empire. Kaleiçi, built during the Ottoman period, became the centre of the city and this historical area still attracts visitors today.
Towards the end of the century, Antalya was affected by the disintegration of the Ottoman Empire and was occupied by the Italians after World War I. However, with the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1921 after the Turkish War of Independence, Antalya took its place as an important city within the borders of Turkey.
Throughout the century, agriculture and tourism have played an important role in Antalya's economy. Especially since the 1980s, the rapid development in the tourism sector has made the city a worldwide tourist destination. Famous for its ancient cities, magnificent beaches and natural beauties, Antalya welcomes many tourists throughout the four seasons of the year.
Today, Antalya stands out as one of the most important cities in Turkey with its modern infrastructure, cultural events, festivals and historical texture. It is also an economically vibrant city with its agricultural production, harbour and industrial potential.
Antalya's history represents an important heritage that has come to the present day with its rich past. The city, adorned with these beauties, offers visitors a unique experience in both historical and natural terms.
