|
|
 |
 |
|
Marmaris: Port Information
|
|
|
You might well imagine that Marmaris, with its characteristic fjords, is located in Norway. But in reality, it's located in the heart of the Mediterranean. In ancient times it was known as "the place blessed by God," and judging from the surrounding countryside, there's no doubt this was the case.
Located where the Aegean Sea meets the Mediterranean, it has a good climate and in winter this part of Turkey guarantees you mild and gentle conditions. Yet in the summer, there is always a welcome breeze. The history of Marmaris dates back to ancient times. Founded around 3400 B.C., its first inhabitants were known as "Caria". The city was first recorded by the Greek historian Erodono, who described Marmaris as a "paradise of green pine and sweet perfumes."
A Turkish sultan named Suliman the Magnificent established his base from which to launch his conquest of Rhodes. Suliman loved to say that the greatness of his empire began in Marmaris. Life has changed little in Marmaris since then. Life in the old town is centered around the small workshop. Here, the carpenters' craftsmanship remains unchanged. These skilled professionals built exceptionally good quality boats using just simple carpenters' tools, and this is probably why their craft still lives on here, while in other countries it is gradually disappearing.
One of the most beautiful ports is Bozurun. According to legend, it was constructed at the orders of Suliman, who wanted to repair his fleet here. The ancient Roman port of Cnido is even older, a tourist centre not far from Marmaris. Since then, Marmaris has become a "calm retreat" for Turkish VIPs. Monarchs, emperors, kings, religious and political leaders have been coming here for centuries to relax and gently revive themselves.
A popular tourist destination is the Castle. Before heading for Rhodes, Suliman the Magnificent ordered work to be carried out to enlarge it. When he returned, he was not satisfied with the work of his architects, Suliman then decided to further extend it according to a strict artistic concept, thus making the Castle one of the major architectural works of the whole Mediterranean. Inside, the Castle houses seven galleries as a sort of art museum containing important finds, as well as the private collection of Kenan Evren, the seventh Turkish President. |
|