Old City Marina

History of Old City Marina 

In the northwest of Kaleici is the harbor, once the lifeblood of trade in Antalya and one of the most important ports on the Mediterranean. When Antalya was founded in 150 BC by King Attalus II of Pergamon — a Hellenistic ruler — the city was meant to be a naval base, dependent heavily on its seaside location.   

During Roman and Seljuk rule, the city continued to prosper from trade, though its location also opened it up to frequent naval attacks from the Abbasid Caliphate. By the Byzantine Empire, which lasted from around 600 AD to 1453, Antalya was a major city; the biggest naval station on the southern coast of Anatolia, and a hub through which commerce traveled into and out of the empire. Cyprus and other countries bordering the Aegean sea could only reach the Byzantine Empire through Antalya. Thus, the Old City Harbor, as it is now known, was one of the most important features of the city, serving as the heart of the economy.  

By the 1920s, though, the harbor had shrunk from its peak, leaving behind what is still there today. Now, instead of cargo carriers and warships, the harbor is populated with yachts and gulets, wooden schooners used for pleasure sailing. 

What to Do at Old City Marina 

Besides admiring the majesty of the boats docked at Old City Marina, there is much to do and explore. The harbor is accessible via stone steps from Kaleici; when down at the marina, the whole grand city rises above you. In warm weather, it is an incredible experience to just walk around, soaking in the Mediterranean sun and stopping by nearby shops for souvenirs and other gifts. Many fishermen also sell their freshly-caught seafood here, laid out on tarps right by the water.  

From the marina, you can also embark on various boat tours of the rocky coast and other sea excursions, including a trip to the spectacular Duden Waterfalls, the lower one of which is about nine kilometers away from the center of Antalya. You can also stop by a cafe or restaurant for a meal outdoors, with an amazing view of the water, and simply hang out. No matter what you choose to do, you will be surrounded by beauty.  

How to Visit 

Anyone can — and should — visit Old City Marina. There is no entrance fee, and you can enter the harbor from many points throughout Kaleici’s Kapisi Sokak street.  

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