YATAĞAN

Muğla and its surrounding areas have a deeply rooted historical background. The history of the region dates back to 3400 BC. In the 1000s BC, the Leleges, an Anatolian-origin people, lived in the region. Around 546 BC, the region came under the rule of the Kingdom of Lydia and shortly after, it fell under Persian control for a brief period. The beginning of the Turkish era was marked by the establishment of the Menteşâ Principality, which played a significant role in the Turkification of Anatolia. The strategic importance of Yatağan was highlighted when Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent set up his headquarters in Bozüyük in 1523 while on his campaign to conquer Rhodes.

Main Historical and Archaelogical Destinations

Stratonikeia Ancient City

Stratonikeia is one of the most significant settlements in the Caria region. The city was named after Stratoneike, the beautiful woman beloved by Antiochus, the son of Seleucus, the King of Syria (Seleucids). The earliest findings in the city date back to the Mycenaean period. Additionally, the city includes structures from the Archaic and Classical periods. Today, visitors can see and partially explore the remaining structures such as the North City Gate, the North Street, the Gymnasium, the Theater, the Bouleuterion, the Temple, and the City Walls. The presence of the Theater and Gymnasium within the city indicates that Stratonikeia was also active during the Hellenistic Period. The Gymnasium is estimated to measure between 105 meters and 180 meters, making it the largest known gymnasium of its kind.

Stratonikeia is one of the rare place where structures from the Ancient, Ottoman, and Republican periods are visible together. The presence of numerous buildings from different eras and the historical environment make it an invaluable opportunity for visitors exploring the city.

Panamara Ancient City

Located to the southeast of Eskihisar, the ancient city of Panamara is situated on a hill above the village of Bağyaka. The ruins include the sanctuary where it is believed that there were two temples: one dedicated to Zeus Panamaros and the other to his wife Hera.

Yatağan Rock Church

The frescoes are located on the northern face of a rock at a height of 30-40 meters. On the western side of the rock, within a red straight frame, there are four scenes. From left to right, the frescoes depict: an angel figure, a man and a woman embracing, two saints with the Virgin Mary, and the final fresco features Jesus with a male figure. The frescoes are dated to the 13th and 14th centuries.

Osman Hamdi Bey House

The restoration of the house where Osman Hamdi Bey, Türkiye’s first museum curator, archaeologist, and painter, stayed for a period in Turgut Village, Yatağan District, Muğla, has been completed.

In Muğla, locations associated with significant events from recent history or important figures are being restored and made available for cultural tourism. Osman Hamdi Bey, who initiated the excavations at the Lagina Ancient City, is known to have started painting his famous work “The Turtle Trainer” in the house in Turgut Village, where he stayed from 1891 to 1893.

The opening of the restored Osman Hamdi Bey House as a museum by the Muğla Governorship has created significant social and economic revitalization in the region.

Dipsiz Stream

Dipsiz Stream is located 4 kilometers away from the town center. As one of the picnic spots in Yatağan, Dipsiz Stream offers a pleasant atmosphere with its trees lined along the spring and rich vegetation. There are no facilities available at Dipsiz Stream, which is one of the places where you can picnic in Yatağan.

In the area, you can also taste the blackberries growing along the stream. You can enjoy a refreshing time with your friends or family under the trees, benefiting from the coolness of the stream. Dipsiz Stream is listed among the places to visit in Yatağan and can be visited at any time of the week.

Blue Lake

Blue Lake, located in Yatağan, features a striking blue appearance due to its formation and offers numerous activities around it.

Blue Lake has a unique natural beauty that is rarely seen elsewhere. As there are no buildings around Blue Lake, you can enjoy a pleasant stroll along the lake with bicycles you bring along.

You can also capture unique photos and immortalize your enjoyable moments by bringing a camera with you on your visit to Blue Lake.

National Film Destinations

Güzelköy – Bozüyük

Bozüyük, located about 8 km from the Muğla-Yatağan highway, is a quaint village. It is known for its traditional village houses, square, and the local coffeehouse where villagers gather. Recently, the village has gained attention as a filming location for several TV series and movies, including “Güzel Köylü,” “Baba Ocağı,” and “Dürüye’nin Güğümleri.” This has turned it into a popular spot for fans and visitors.

Bozüyük is a charming town with many historical houses and is known for its agricultural and livestock activities. It features an 800-year-old monumental plane tree and is famous for Bozüyük Pınarbaşı, a natural water source with a depth of 87 meters.

The local market has become a place where natural products are sold, and the small shops in the town square are adorned with souvenirs. Bozüyük offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and stress of big cities, making it an ideal place to relax and recharge.

Recommended Activities

Youth and Culture Festival – June

Traditional Yatağan Bull Wrestling Festival – Autumn Seoson