Alanya

Alanya is a seaside city and district of Antalya Province in southern Turkey. It lies on the Mediterranean coast on a peninsula that projects into the Gulf of Antalya, with the historic core perched above the harbor. The area is known for its beaches, castle walls and a rocky promontory.

Historically, the city has roots in antiquity, known in ancient times as Coracesium. It became a fortified Byzantine town before it was conquered by the Seljuk Empire in the 13th century. Under Sultan Alaeddin Keykubad I, the Alanya Castle and the nearby Red Tower were constructed, and the town developed as a prominent port on the eastern Mediterranean. The area later became part of the Ottoman Empire and gradually developed into a modern tourist destination.

Prominent sights include Alanya Castle (Kale) with its hilltop walls and views, the Red Tower (Kizil Kule), and the Damlatas Cave, a stalactite-filled cave near the city center. Cleopatra Beach, a long sandy shoreline along the coast, is another major draw. The ancient harbor area and the Alanya Archaeological Museum preserve regional artifacts, while nearby natural attracts such as Sapadere Canyon and Dim River offer day trips.

Economically, Alanya relies heavily on tourism, including hotels, beach activities, boat trips and tours. The city also maintains a fishing fleet and related services. It is served by Gazipaşa-Alanya Airport and Antalya International Airport, with road connections to inland regions and other Turkish cities; cruise ships occasionally visit the harbor.

Alanya experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. July and August are the warmest months, while rainfall is concentrated in winter. The climate, beaches and historical sites make it a year-round destination for visitors.