Kekova is in southern Turkey, a place located on the Turquoise Coast. Kekova is not only known for its gorgeous turquoise sea but also its ancient and mysterious city.
Kekova is an ancient Lycian settlement that was founded in the 10th century BC. After Kekova was destroyed by the two major earthquakes, the first was in 400BC and the second one in the 2nd century AD, ever since the city has been submerged underwater.
The ancient Lycian city of Simena has two parts – an island and a coastal part of the mainland. In ancient times Simena was a small fishing village and later the castle where sits on the remains of Lycian structure was built by the Knights of Rhodes. Apart from the beautiful flooded city buildings and the ancient port there are some very nice Lycian sarcophagi overlooking the sea and another sarcophagus, showing up from the sea. This is one of the most charming places in the Mediterranean.
The famous ancient monuments in the region are, Kekova, Simena Aperlai and Theimussa creating a magnificent scene with half of the city under water and half above. The most atmospheric spot is the mysterious sunken town, where ancient houses, stone stairs and embankment can be seen submerged in the clear waters. Therefore it is of great interest for underwater exploration.
Owing to swimming is forbidden around the sunken ruins, hence, one of the best activities is to kayak over the ancient city of Kekova which inaccessible apart from by boat and paddling in the sights at your own pace. Kekova is also the only area where the flying fish can be watched in this region.
These bays provide natural and safe harbors in all seasons. in ancient time The Roman pirates were approaching here and today yachtsmen particularly come to explore the unspoilt landscape. Kekova is the one of main points in the yachting routes of Turkey. The distance from Fethiye to Kekova is 139 km.
The territory of Kekova, is a group of islands and bays with its amazingly clear water and unspoilt nature. During summer season, yacht lovers prefer to visit on their Blue Cruises along Lycia´s Turquoise Coast. It makes so popular that is a peaceful place of history, gorgeous turquoise water, fantastic swimming spots and stunning bays.
Blue Cruises anchor here to enjoy abundance of sea life and to discover secluded coves, many of which can only be accessed by water. Also, Kekova gives opportunities of snorkeling and scuba diving.
Kekova was included a Specially Protected Area in 1990 to protect stunning natural, cultural beauty and geographic richness of Kekova Island and surrounding coast. The Kekova Specially Protected Area is 260 km² on Turkey’s Mediterranean coastline.
