Kusadasi, Turkey
Overview and Essential Travel Information
A foaming sea, good beaches and over 300 days of sunshine a year.... no wonder Kusadasi has grown into one of Turkey's major sea-resorts. The ancient ruins of the fortress and its gates are a reminder of the impact the Ottomans had on the city at the beginning of the 15th century. These days, you'll still see old houses in narrow streets altered with more fashionable streets, such as the 'Barlak Sokak', the place to go to when you're looking for restaurants and entertainment when the sun sets over the palm-lined boulevard of this harbour town.
The Pigeon Island (just off the coast) offers the ruins of a Byzantine castle (better known as the Pirate Castle) and some good views of the coastal town itself. Originally, the island was named 'Bird Island' but when the Ottomans decided to name the city like that (Kusadasi means Bird Island), the island was renamed Pigeon Island.
From Kusadasi, ferries leave to and fro Italy or one of the Greek islands - there are daily ferries for Samos in summer. But before you rush off, Kusadasi is also an excellent city from which to explore impressive historical sights including Miletos and Ephesus and the rock formations at Pamukale.
SIGHTS
Kale district
Huddled inside the citywalls the Kale district is the most attractive part of twon. Many old houses and small streets.
Kale Mosque
"The Fortress Mosque", built by the vizier Okuz Mehmet Pasa in the 17th century, is the most impressing and monumental mosque in Kusadasi. Constructed in the area of 1800m2, the mosque has 550 person capacity. The main part of mosque is square-planned and covered by a large leaden dome- with the supports of 12 arches. Inner part of the dome is ornamented by geometrical designs and plant motives. The entrance door exemlifies the best of wood- working of Ottoman, decorated with mother of pearl. Between the 16 stained-glass windows, are the oil paintings decorated with Ion styled columns.
Pigeon Island
Just off the coast. On the island you find the remains of a Byzantine fortress.
Ephesus
The old greek city of Ephesus or Efes is just inland from Kusadasi. See the separate section of Ephesus for more info.
Information provided by cctraveler2 at Travelpost.com
Asia and Far East | Indian Ocean | South Pacific | Pacific Ocean
Pacific Coast - USA | Gulf Coast - USA | Atlantic Coast - USA
Atlantic Ocean - North | Atlantic Ocean - South | Mediterranean | Northern Europe
Best Island Accommodations | Best Island Activities | Best Island Dining | Best Island Real Estate
Online Reservations |
Links | Advertising Information | Best of the Islands Award
Submit Your Website |
Home