FROM MERSIN TO ANAMUR

In Demircili (the ancient Imbriogon), north of Silifke on the way to Uzuncaburc, there are well-preserved memorial tombs of the early Roman period.

Anamur Castle, Mersin

The drive up the mountain road to the magnificent ancient site of Diocaesarea (Uzuncaburc) at 1200 m is lined with large tombs. The remains of the impressive Temple of Zeus Olbius from the Hellenistic period, the Temple of Tyche, the god of luck, a monumental arch, a theater built between 161-180 AD, a Byzantine church, and a tower are outstanding. Four m to the east are the ruins of Olba (Ura) where the Roman aqueducts, theater, and fountain make a quick tour well worthwhile.

Continuing along the coastal road south from Silifke you come to the 5th century Meryemlik (Ayatekla), a Roman necropolis with the tomb and church of St. Thecla, the first female martyr / saint.

Natives

Tasucu, with good accommodation for tourists, is a resort town with sandy beaches and a harbor. Regular sea bus and ferry service connects the town with Girne in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

Ovacik, 44 km west of Tasucu, is a quiet spot well-known for its fisherman's wharf and beach. The Peninsula (ancient Cavaliere) of Ovacik is one of the natural highlights of Turkey, an ideal area for diving. If this sport interests you, visit Kosrelik Bay (Afrodisias) and Kosrelik Island. Eighteen km southeast of Ovacik off the coast of Kos relik Bay, you will find Roman ruins and beautiful mosaics. Off Aydincik, to the west of Ovacik, the surrounding sailing waters are clearly marked, ensuring crusing safety along this breathtaking stretch of coast. The shore road that clings to the pine-clad mountain slopes, which plunge steeply down to the sea, offers spectacular views of cliffs, coves and the brilliant turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.

Another 36 km to the west of Aydincik, Bozyazi is a holiday center with clean and commodious camping sites along its wide beaches.

Uzuncaburc, Silifke, Mesin

The fine, well-preserved Anamur Castle, set between two curving sandy beaches, commands a splendid view of the coastline. Originally built by the Crusaders in the Middle Ages, it later served as an Ottoman stronghold.

Thirteen km from Bozyazi and a few km inland, the town of Anamur is nestled in the mountains with banana plantations surrounding it. Just west of town on a beautiful beach are the ruins of ancient Anamorium with double ramparts, theater, odeon, bath and necropolis. Situated on terraces above the sea, it is perfect for a climb to the top which overlooks one of the cleanest and most pristine seasides in Turkey.