DATÇA

Starting from the 2000s BC, the Karlar (Carians) began settling in the region. In the 1000s BC, the Dorians from the Greek mainland arrived in the area and established a total of 6 city-states: 3 on the island of Rhodes, 1 on the island of Kos, 1 on the Bodrum Peninsula, and 1 on the Datça Peninsula. The central city-state among these was Knidos, which was established on the Datça Peninsula.

Initially established in the Burgaz area, 2 kilometers northeast of the modern city center of Datça, Knidos flourished and became wealthy in the 7th and 6th centuries BC. After the defeat of the Lydian State by the Persians in 546 BC, it came under Persian rule. The original site of Knidos at Burgaz is notable for its ancient ruins. According to Professor Dr. Numan Tuna, this area is described as the place where the six Doric city-states mentioned by Herodotus held competitions in honor of Apollo. The famous Temple of Apollo, where the prizes were kept, is also located here.

The excavation results, particularly the findings from the lower terrace, indicate that the Emecik Sarı Liman Sacred Area held significant maritime importance until the late 6th century BC. Among the findings, there are imported goods from Egypt, Phoenicia, and Etruria, as well as local artifacts such as limestone and fired clay figurines and pottery examples unique to Knidos.

The epigraphic data and valuable votive objects found in the sacred area at Sarı Liman confirm the connection of the region with Apollo. Excavations at the Temple of Apollo have uncovered votives, statues, and figurines dating back to the 8th-9th centuries BC. Additionally, excavations around the temple revealed that other temples and churches from later periods were also built in the area.

In the 4th century BC, Knidos was moved to the cape of Tekir, the tip of the peninsula for the purpose of trade. In the same century, it came under the rule of Alexander the Great. From the 2nd century AD, with the division of the Roman Empire, it came under the rule of the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire. Due to major earthquakes and the Arab invasions of the 7th century AD, Knidos was largely destroyed and abandoned.

The Datça Peninsula remained within the territories of the Menteşâ Principality from the second half of the 13th century to the first quarter of the 15th century. In the 15th century, the Ottomans incorporated the Menteşâ Principality into their territories, and the region became part of the Ottoman Empire. In 1909, during the reign of Ottoman Sultan Mehmed V (Sultan Reşad), the name of Datça was changed to Reşadiye, but it was restored to Datça during the period of the Republic of Türkiye. In 1928, Datça became a district of Muğla province, with its center located in the Reşadiye neighborhood. In 1947, the district center was moved to the present-day İskele neighborhood.

Main Historical and Archaeological Destinations

Ancient City of Knidos

Knidos was moved to the tip of the peninsula in the 4th century BC for commercial reasons. According to Strabo, the city was located along the coast and on the island in front of it. Two harbors were created: the North Harbor for military purposes and the South Harbor for trade. Today, remnants of the harbors can still be seen.

The city is renowned for the statue of Aphrodite and numerous temples. The Aphrodite statue, created by Praxiteles, was highly celebrated in ancient times. Knidos was an important center of culture and trade during the Roman and Byzantine periods. Notable figures such as Eudoxus, Praxiteles, and Sostratus lived here. Among the ruins of the city are the pedestal of the Aphrodite statue, a theater, and the Temple of Demeter.

Main Bays and Beaches

Palamutbükü

One of the popular bays in Datça, Palamutbükü is located 30 kilometers from the city center and is one of the region’s most popular beaches. This bay offers various services to visitors, allowing them to live unique experiences.

Although Palamutbükü has a stony beach rather than a sandy one, it stands out for its natural beauty and quite atmosphere. The unique scenery and serenity here captivate every visitor.

Gerence Bay

Datça Peninsula, one of the most impressive and natural beauties of Gerence Bay, offers an untouched beach experience since there are no facilities. Located 30 kilometers from the center, this bay stands out for its natural landscape and peaceful atmosphere.

The road to Gerence Bay is rugged, making it about a 40-minute drive from the center. However, this journey is definitely worth it to enjoy the unique scenery that the bay has to offer.

Ovabükü Beach

Ovabükü Beach, one of Datça’s hidden beauties, not just offers a peaceful atmosphere, but also provides escape from the stress of modern life. Located just 15 kilometers from the Datça center, you can reach this beach in about 20 minutes by car. The name Ovabükü comes from the wide plain-like structure surrounding it. Known for its clean and serene atmosphere, this beach is an excellent spot for a pleasant day.

Hayıtbükü Bay

Hayıtbükü Bay, one of Datça’s natural paradises, is a neighbor of Ovabükü and presents a perfect blend of green and blue. Located 15 kilometers from Datça center, Hayıtbükü is one of the favorite bays of Mesudiye Village. The bay is accessible via  rugged roads, but the journey is definitely worth it considering the peace and natural beauty it offers upon arrival. Its stony beach makes it an ideal choice for visitors seeking a quiet and natural atmosphere.

Kargı Bay

Kargı Bay, situated just 3 kilometers from the Datça center, is one of the most beautiful bays in the region. It is reachable on foot from the city center in about 30 minutes, and there are also public transport services available for easy access.

Surrounded by mountains, Kargı Bay minimizes the impact of the wind, providing a calm and warm sea. Thanks to the shallow waters, visitors can use the piers to enter the water. The beach, consisting of sand rather than stones, makes Kargı Bay one of Datça’s popular beaches, captivating visitors with this feature.

Recommended Activities

Datça Municipality Almond Blossom Festival (Winter Season)

Main Marinas and Ports

There is 1 private and 1 public marina and port in Datça.