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About
Antakya (Hatay), Turkey
Antakya or also commonly known as Hatay is a city of
Turkey located in the eastern Mediterranean region
(southeastern Turkey) on the Asi River (Orontes) and
the Iskenderun Bay. Antakya was once the capital of
the Seleucid kings during Roman times. The city of
Antakya takes its name from the father of Seleucus
Nicator; Antiochus. Starting in 301 B.C. it was called
''Antioch''. The city was the center of Christianity
and had been visited by St. Barnabas, St. Paul and St.
Peter. The city was also famous as a center of
artistic, scientific and commercial activities. The
ancient biblical city of "Antioch ad Orontes" was very
important for early Christianity and there are still
sacred buildings and churches in the region. The most
important of them is St. Peter's Grotto, located just
outside the city, in which St. Peter preached, and the
early Christians called themselves ''Christian'' for
the first time. The Iron Gate of Antioch is to the
south of the grotto among the ruins of the city. The
Vatican declared Antakya a holy place in 1983. Simeon
the Stylite is also associated with Antakya.
The Hatay Museum deserves a particular interest, in
that it houses one of the richest collections of Roman
mosaics in the world and the Castle of Antakya can
give you a panoramic view of the city.
Antakya is also known in mythology. Nearby in a place
called Harbiye within 8 Km of Antakya, Apollo is said
to have fallen in love with Daphne and was going to
have her. Gaia, or Mother Earth, turned Daphne into a
tree in order to save her from his amorous advances.
The Turkish word "Defne" means "Bay leaf". The site is
full of these trees and gardens of orchids. You may
have a pleasant meal by the waterfalls. The Church of
St. Peter and the Haron Carving are the main
historical remains in Harbiye near Hatay.
Samandag is perfect place for sightseeing or beach
activities. Seleucia Perea, 6 km south of Samandag, is
the ancient city, which was a busy port at the time
when Paul and Barnabas made their first missionary
journey from here. The Titus-Vespasianus Tunnel, which
was built to divert the rainwaters, even by today's
standard, is a superb example of engineering. Nearby
there are 12 rock tombs that may be visited.
A drive to Kapisuyu village will provide you with a
fascinating scene from the Zeus Temple. There is an
excellent view from there of the harbor, sandy beach
and fertile plain lying below.
The area around Antakya provides opportunities for
camping, picnics, hunting, fishing and there are also
thermal springs.
For more information on Antakya (Hatay) hotels and how
to get to Antakya, please
contact us.
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