KÖYCEĞİZ

Köyceğiz was first settled by the Carians and Leleges around 3000 BC. This information is mentioned in the artifacts of historian Herodotus, geographer Strabo, and poet Homer. The remains of cities, fortresses, aqueducts, agricultural terraces, and rock tombs in the region carry the traces of these early settlements to the present day.

Kaunos, known as an important port city, was established on the shores of Lake Köyceğiz. Kaunos played a key role in the trade and maritime transportation of Caria and later came under the rule of Alexander the Great. During the Roman period, the deforestation and resulting erosion in the surrounding areas led to the region being covered by swamps, which caused a decline in population. However, during the Byzantine period, the area was revitalized after the swamps were drained.

The region was taken from the Byzantines in 1261 by Salpakis Mantakhias, known as Menteşe Bey, the founder of the Menteşe Principality, and came under the control of the Ottoman Empire in 1424.

Main Historical and Archaeological Destinations

Kaunos

Kaunos is located in Southwestern Anatolia, within the borders of Köyceğiz District of Muğla Province, to the west of Dalyan neighborhood and Dalyan Stream. First introduced to the scientific world in 1840 and with excavations continuing since 1966, Kaunos is recognized as an important archaeological site. It is mentioned in the Lycian version of the Trilingual Inscription at Letoon that Kaunos was founded by the indigenous people of Anatolia and was originally known by the local name “Kbid”. This name was used by the Kaunians until the 4th century BC, after which it was changed with the Hellenization of the city, following colonization by the Greeks, who introduced Greek names as in other Anatolian cities.

Kaunos was established on a peninsula that extends towards the sea, with the Acropolis (Persikon) at 150 meters high and the smaller Acropolis (Herakleion) to the southwest. The city was administratively divided into “demos” and governed by judges known as “dikastai.” Additionally, Kaunos included dependent settlements known as “komes.” The earliest traces of settlement date back to the 7th century BC, and the city remained inhabited until the late Byzantine period.

Natural and Cultural Heritage

Köyceğiz Lake

Located at the western edge of the Mediterranean Region, this lake lies within the borders of Köyceğiz district and is known for its sulphurous, brackish water. The lake’s elevation above sea level is 8 meters, and its depth varies between 15 and 150 meters. Typically calm, the lake is suitable for water sports like water skiing during eight months of the year. The Dalyan Strait, known in ancient times as Dalbis Steam, connects the lake to the sea, extending 8 miles and reaching the sea through a reed-filled route.

 Along the coastline lies the famous Iztuzu Beach, which spans a width of 50 to 200 meters and stretches 5.5 kilometers in length. The lake was separated from the sea due to the gulf’s mouth being blocked by alluvial deposits, yet it still continues to discharge its water into the sea.

 The small island within the lake is locally known as Prison Island. It was historically used for military purposes and later as a prison. Ruins of a Genoese castle can still be seen on the island. It is also referred to as Lover’s Island; according to legend, it was where two young lovers sought refuge when their families refused to let them marry. However, the couple met a tragic fate on the island when they were bitten by a snake and died.

Sultaniye Hot Springs

Located in the southwest of Lake Köyceğiz, at the foothills of Mount Ölemez, the history of the Sultaniye Hot Springs dates back thousands of years. These hot springs were known to have been used by the Kaunians around 100 BC and were expanded during the Byzantine period with the addition of accommodation facilities. However, these facilities are now submerged under the waters of Köyceğiz Lake. During the Roman period, the hot springs were converted into a comprehensive hospital, with the inscription “Death cannot enter here in the name of the gods” placed at the entrance. The name “Mount Ölemez” (meaning “Mount Immortal”) is derived from this historic phrase.

Sultaniye Hot Springs offer direct treatment for various health issues such as rheumatism, kidney and urinary tract disorders, metabolic disorders, mental fatigue, skin conditions, and gynaecological diseases. The water of the springs contains calcium chloride, calcium sulphate, calcium sulphide, bromide, radon, and radioactive substances. With a water temperature of 39°C, Sultaniye Hot Springs is the hot spring with the highest radioactivity in Türkiye and ranks second in the world in terms of radon levels, following the hot spring in Indonesia. The high radioactivity endows the springs with rehabilitative properties.

Toparlar Waterfall

Toparlar Waterfall, located just 8 km from Köyceğiz, is a refreshing escape for nature lovers and trekking enthusiasts, even during the hottest times of the year. The waterfall is accessible via a pleasant 15-minute nature walk.

Sweetgum Trees and Citrus

The sweetgum tree, also known as the Anatolian Sweetgum or Liquidambar tree, can grow up to 20 meters tall, with broad leaves and a deciduous nature. It has thick branches and a broad canopy, resembling a plane tree. It thrives in moist areas such as floodplains, swamps, and riverbanks. The tree favors a temperate climate, plenty of sunlight, and grows well in deep, moist, and sandy soils. The sweetgum tree forms forests in only two regions worldwide and one of them is in Köyceğiz. Sweetgum oil is used in various industries, including medicine and cosmetics. Besides, Köyceğiz is known for producing some of Türkiye’s best citrus fruits.

Köyceğiz Bird Sanctuary

Köyceğiz and its surroundings offer a rich diversity of bird species. Over 180 species of birds, including both native and migratory species, live in the region. Each year, nature enthusiasts, particularly from the UK and other European countries, visit Köyceğiz in groups for bird watching.

Recommended Activities

International Yoga Festival (Autumn Season)

International Cittaslow Festival (Summer Season)

International Aromatic Plants Festival (Summer Season)

National-International Turkish Universities Köyceğiz Yaşar Sevim Beach Handball Championship (Summer Season)

Main Marinas and Ports

There is 1 public marina and 1 private yacht club.