One of the popular districts of Mersin, Silifke is among the important destinations of our country that is worth exploring with its natural beauties, historical structures and its abundant culture. It is known that this district, which hosts many local and foreign tourists throughout the year, takes its name from Seleucus Nicator, who ruled Anatolia. When you visit Silifke, you can come across traces of many civilizations and discover historical structures and ruins while strolling around the unmatched streets. If you wish, we can check out the historical places to visit in Silifke together.
Silifke Castle, built on a 185-meter hill which is dominating Silifke, is one of the historical structures that are worth seeing in the district. When historical sources are examined, it is seen that this structure belongs to the Hellenistic or Early Roman Period. However, Silifke Castle today has the appearance of a medieval castle as a result of the repairs and changes that were made.
Silifke Castle, which is in an extraordinary location, provides its visitors with the opportunity to witness the Göksu River and a large part of Silifke panoramically. You can enjoy this fascinating scenery by visiting the castle, especially during sunset.
Saint Thecla Underground Church is considered one of the most important places of worship in the Early Christian Period. According to legend, Thecla, a student of St. Paul who came to Silifke to spread Christianity, was subjected to the oppression of the pagans. When they came to kill her, it is believed that Thecla miraculously disappeared and was saved. After the disappearance of Saint Thecla, the cave was considered sacred to Christians and was used as a secret place of worship for a while. This cave was converted into a church in the 4th century. When you go to Silifke, we recommend that you visit the Saint Thecla Underground Church, which continues to welcome visitors today.
The Turkish bath, located in Narlıkuyu Bay in the Silifke district, is an important structure dating back to the 4th century Roman Period. Poimenios, a Byzantine governor who lived in the 4th century, hadHeaven that was built where the fresh water from the Heaven Sinkhole flows into the sea. On the floor of the bathing section are the daughters of Zeus, Aglaia, Euphrosyne and Thalia, known as The Three Graces. These 3 sisters were called Kharites, which means brightness, brilliance and beauty in Ancient Greek. Only the pool section of the bath and this fascinating mosaic floor have survived to the present day, and today it welcomes visitors under the name of Narlıkuyu Mosaic Museum.
The sinkholes called heaven and hell, which are formed by nature's own natural processes, fascinate those who witness them. When you visit this fascinating natural formation, you have to go down 452 steps to reach the Heaven Sinkholes. In addition, there is a church that was built in Heaven Sinkholes that is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Although it is not possible to go down to the Hell Sinkholes, there is a special viewing terrace for visitors who would like to see this fascinating scenery.
It is believed that the Asthma Cave, located 600 meters northwest of Heaven and Hell Sinkholes, is good for asthma. The belief that the air in the cave is healing especially attracts the attention of people with respiratory problems.
This cave, which is descended into by a spiral iron staircase, can be easily visited because it has very good lighting and walking paths. It is also possible to say that the temperature of the cave does not change at all in summer and winter. While the average temperature in the cave is 15°C, the humidity rate reaches 85% in summer and 95% in winter.
Adamkayalar is a fascinating area consisting of figures and reliefs that are carved into the steep slopes of the giant canyon called Şeytan Deresi. This fascinating work dating back to the 2nd century is the mausoleum of respected soldiers and king priests. It is seen that the figures in the 9 niches consist of 4 women, 11 men, 2 children, 1 mountain goat and Roman eagle figures.
When you visit Silifke, you can use the Erdemli highway to go to Adamkayalar. However, the last part of the road is not suitable for transportation by vehicle. Therefore, you need to walk after a certain point.
Located 30 kilometers north of Silifke, Uzuncaburç has columned streets that intersect each other perpendicularly, temples and monumental fountains. This ancient city, which has been preserved to this day, attracts the attention of its visitors at all times of the year. At the entrance of this city, known as the place of worship of the Olba Kingdom in the Hellenistic Age, visitors are greeted by a 7-meter-high Ceremonial Gate. After entering the gate, you will reach the Temple of Zeus, which is surrounded by 36 large columns in a large courtyard.
There is also a theater built during the Roman Empire Period in the ancient city with a capacity of 3,000 people. While walking around here, it can be an extremely enjoyable experience for you to feel the magic of this ancient period and the theater shows that were once held. When you visit the Uzuncaburç Archaeological Site, do not forget to take pictures of the sunset and immortalize the moment while enjoying the fascinating atmosphere!
After exploring the historical sites in Silifke, you can catch your breath a little and have a pleasant hotel experience at Elite World Resort Mersin Silifke, which has opened its doors to serve under the Elite World brand of Elite World Hotels & Resorts. Located in the Yeşilovacık region, the hotel is only 25 kilometers away from Silifke Castle. Drawing attention with its location that is close to popular places and historical structures, the hotel allows you to reach many places with no trouble.
Standing out with its seafront location, comfortable living spaces and luxurious service approach, the 5-star hotel promises its guests an extraordinary holiday experience with its non-alcoholic all-inclusive concept. In the superior rooms of Elite World Resort Mersin Silifke, many services that will increase your comfort such as bathroom supplies, towels, slippers, hair dryer, shower cabin, adjustable air conditioning, free minibar, a desk, a chair, wardrobe, safebox, electronic door locking system, television, specially equipped direct telephone, internet connection, tea and coffee set and kettle are waiting for you.
You can contact Elite World Hotels & Resorts to have a flawless accommodation experience in Silifke and get more information about the hotel.
