Alanya, Beach resort city in Antalya Province, Turkey
Alanya is a coastal town on a rocky promontory, surrounded by sandy beaches and forested mountain slopes in the background. The historic core sits on the peninsula, while the modern quarter stretches along the coast to the east and west.
The settlement was founded in the second century before Christ and changed hands several times between Romans, Byzantines, and Arab rulers. In the thirteenth century the Seljuk ruler expanded the fortifications and moved his winter residence here.
The Byzantine shipyard at the harbor shows the maritime tradition of this coastal town, which relied on shipbuilding for centuries. Today the restored arches and stonework recall the time when galleys were built here for trade and defense.
The climate allows beach holidays from spring to late autumn, while midsummer can become very hot. The fortress on the hill is reachable on foot or by car, with the ascent offering viewpoints over the coast and sea.
The red brick color of the octagonal tower at the harbor gave the structure its name and served as a beacon for incoming ships. From the top floor guards monitored the entire bay and could spot dangers early.
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