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Simena, also known as Kaleköy today, is a historical and touristic village located in the Demre district of Antalya province of Turkey. Simena, which bears the traces of the ancient Lycian civilization, has been under the rule of various civilizations throughout history. For this reason, the village attracts attention with its rich historical texture and magnificent nature. Kaleköy is one of the rare places that cannot be reached by land, and can only be reached by sea or walking paths. This feature adds a special charm to the village.
The most distinctive feature of Simena is the Simena Castle built on a hill. This castle had strategic importance both in ancient times and in the Middle Ages. When you climb to the top of the castle, the breathtaking view of Kekova Island and the surrounding bays welcomes visitors. There are also ruins of a theater from the Roman period in the castle. This small but impressive theater fascinates visitors with its historical atmosphere.
Lycian-era rock tombs and underwater ancient ruins located right next to the sea on the coastal part of Kaleköy shed light on the history of the region. Boat tours and snorkeling activities in the clear waters of the sea offer ideal opportunities to discover these historical ruins underwater. Simena offers an unforgettable experience to its visitors by offering historical and natural beauties together.
Where is Simena (Kaleköy) and How to Get There?
Simena, known today as Kaleköy, is a historical and touristic village in the Demre district of Antalya province in the Mediterranean Region of Turkey. Kaleköy is located on the shores of the Gulf of Kekova and is one of the rare routes that do not have direct access by road. With this feature, although it is a bit difficult to reach, the journey to discover these beauties is fascinating and unforgettable in every moment.
The most common and enjoyable way to reach Kaleköy is by sea. You can reach Kaleköy by boats departing from Demre's Çayağzı Port or the nearby Üçağız Village. Boat tours usually cover other historical and natural beauties in and around Kekova Island, so your journey becomes not only a means of transportation but also a touristic experience. During this short boat trip, it is possible to see fish swimming in the clear waters of the sea and ancient ruins underwater.
For those who want to reach by land, you must first reach Demre via Antalya or Fethiye. You can reach Demre from Antalya with a journey of approximately 140 kilometers. After arriving in Demre, you can take a short drive to Üçağız Village and from there you can take boats to Kaleköy. This short distance to Üçağız Village is a pleasant journey, usually spent enjoying nature and the sea view.
Visiting Kaleköy is not just a journey, but also a journey into the depths of history. This charming village, bearing the traces of the ancient Lycian civilization, offers its visitors a unique experience with its natural beauties and historical texture. When you reach Kaleköy, you can enjoy fresh seafood at the restaurants on the seaside, walk among the historical ruins and watch the magnificent view of Kekova from Simena Castle.
Places to Visit in Simena (Kaleköy)
This charming village located in the Gulf of Kekova offers its visitors an unforgettable experience with both its ancient ruins and magnificent views. Here are the places to visit in Simena Kaleköy:
Simena Castle
Simena Castle is one of the most distinctive and impressive structures of the village. Built in the ancient Lycian period, this castle was also used in the Roman and Byzantine periods over time. When you climb to the top of the castle, you will be greeted by a breathtaking view of Kekova Island and the surrounding bays. There are also ruins of a small but impressive ancient theater inside the castle.
Lycian Rock Tombs
The Lycian rock tombs located at the foot of Simena Castle reveal the historical richness of the region. These tombs reflect the burial traditions of the Lycian civilization and are among the important ruins of the ancient period. You will feel like you have embarked on a historical journey while exploring the area where the rock tombs are located.
Sunken City
Located on the shores of Kekova Island, just off the coast of Simena, the Sunken City is famous for its ancient ruins under water. This area is a popular place for boat trips and snorkeling. While exploring the Sunken City, the ancient structures and ruins of the old port that can be seen underwater give you a glimpse into the depths of history.
Ancient Port
Simena's natural location allowed it to be used as an important port in ancient times. The ruins of this ancient port can still be seen today. While walking around the port, you can follow the traces of ancient trade routes and feel the atmosphere of the prehistoric period.
Seaside and Beaches
There are peaceful and quiet beaches on the seaside of Kaleköy. These beaches are perfect places for swimming and sunbathing. You can cool off in the clear waters of the sea and enjoy nature by walking along the coast.
Simena Lycian Rock Tombs and Ancient Ruins
One of the most striking features of Simena is the rock tombs and ancient ruins belonging to the Lycian civilization. Simena, which was an important settlement during the Lycian period, has managed to carry the traces of this period to the present day. Rock tombs reveal the burial traditions and architectural skills of the Lycian culture.
Lycian rock tombs located at the foot of Simena Castle are monumental tombs carved into rocks. These tombs are an important part of the Lycian civilization's way of honoring their dead and keeping their memories alive. The reliefs and inscriptions on the rock tombs provide important clues about the religious and social life of the period. Visitors can learn about the beliefs and rituals of the Lycian people by examining these tombs closely.
The ancient ruins around Simena also offer visitors a historical journey. Among these ruins are traces of walls, temples and public buildings from the Lycian period. While walking through the narrow streets of Kaleköy, you can touch the stone walls of ancient structures and feel the atmosphere of the past. In addition, while walking among these ruins, you can get to know the historical richness of the region more closely.
Lycian rock tombs and ancient ruins are important elements that preserve the historical heritage of Simena. These historical structures, in addition to introducing visitors to the rich cultural past and architectural skills of the Lycian civilization, are of great value as a heritage from the past to the present. Visitors to Simena will find themselves in the ancient world and have an unforgettable experience while exploring this fascinating historical texture.
Best Boat Tours and Sunken City Tour in Kaleköy
Kaleköy is a place with unique beauties that can be explored not only by land but also by sea. Boat tours are a popular activity for tourists visiting Kaleköy and are one of the best ways to discover the natural and historical beauties of the surrounding area. These tours allow you to enjoy the clear waters and see the ruins under the sea.
Best Boat Tours: Boat tours departing from Kaleköy offer the opportunity to discover the magnificent views and hidden coves of Kekova Bay. These tours, which usually last a full day, include many stops. During the boat tours, you can swim in the clear waters of Aquarium Bay, examine the ruins of the ancient shipyard in Tersane Bay and enjoy nature in Gökkaya Bay. Lunch served on the boats makes your holiday even more special with fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.
Sunken City Tour: One of the most exciting stops of the boat tours to Kaleköy is the Sunken City located near Kekova Island. This ancient city was submerged under the sea as a result of earthquakes during the Lycian period and over time, thanks to the clarity of the water, it became an underwater museum. During the Sunken City tour, boats move slowly to show ancient ruins from above the water. Some tours are organized with transparent-bottomed boats, so you can see the ruins under water more clearly.
The Sunken City tour not only sees historical ruins, but also reveals the natural beauties of the region. These tours usually include snorkeling and diving breaks, so you can swim among historical ruins and discover marine life. These activities, which are held in the calm waters of Kaleköy, offer both an educational and entertaining experience.
Boat tours and the Sunken City tour in Kaleköy are a unique opportunity to discover the historical and natural beauties of the Mediterranean. These tours offer a holiday experience full of unforgettable memories for sea and history enthusiasts. You should definitely try these unique boat tours during your visit to Kaleköy.
Simena (Kaleköy) Accommodation Suggestions
Simena, also known as Kaleköy, is a village that fascinates its visitors with its unique natural beauties and historical texture. Staying in this cute village where the sea and history are intertwined offers you a peaceful holiday. Here are some suggestions for accommodation in Simena Kaleköy:
Pensions and Boutique Hotels
Instead of large hotels, there are pensions and boutique hotels in Kaleköy that offer more intimate and warm environments. These accommodations offer their guests a family-like service. These pensions, with their rooms overlooking the sea and surrounded by nature, are ideal for those who want to have a quiet and peaceful holiday. You can have your breakfast by the sea and start the day with fresh and natural products.
Stone Houses and Boutique Mansions
Staying in stone houses that reflect the historical texture of Kaleköy offers you an experience that will make you feel the traces of the past. These stone houses have usually been carefully restored and transformed into comfortable accommodation areas. You can enjoy both staying in an authentic environment and taking advantage of modern comforts. Most of the stone houses have a wonderful sea view and offer a perfect setting to watch the sunset in the evening.
Seafront Accommodation Options
Kaleköy also has seafront accommodation options. These hotels and guesthouses are a few steps away from the sea and offer the opportunity to enjoy the sea at any time of the day. You can smell the sea when you wake up in the morning, relax on the beach all day long and fall asleep to the sound of the waves in the evening. Seafront accommodations are ideal especially for sea-loving holidaymakers.
Ecological and Sustainable Accommodation
There are various options in Kaleköy for those looking for ecological and sustainable accommodations that are compatible with nature. These facilities are operated in an environmentally friendly manner and take care to protect natural resources. Meals prepared with organic products, a living space intertwined with nature and environmentally friendly practices are among the privileges offered by staying in these facilities.
Kaleköy offers various accommodation options that appeal to different budgets and tastes. Simena (Kaleköy) is a perfect choice for those who want to spend a peaceful holiday intertwined with nature and stay in a historical atmosphere. You can consider these suggestions to have a comfortable accommodation experience during your visit.
