Köprülü Canyon National Park, National park with deep canyon in Manavgat, Turkey
Köprülü Canyon National Park is a protected natural area in the Manavgat district of Antalya Province, where the Köprüçay River has carved a deep gorge through limestone rock. The gorge has sheer cliff walls rising on both sides, forested slopes above, and a fast-flowing river at the bottom.
The area was used in ancient times, and the Romans built a stone bridge over the river that still stands today and gives the park its name. The site was declared a national park in the 20th century to protect both the natural environment and the ancient remains found within it.
The park's name comes directly from the old stone bridge crossing the river, since "köprü" means bridge in Turkish. Today, visitors can watch rafting groups navigate the fast water below that same bridge, which still carries foot traffic across the gorge.
The park is easiest to reach by private car or organized tour from Manavgat or Antalya, as public transport into the canyon is limited. Solid footwear is a good idea for any trail walking, as paths along the river can be uneven and wet near the water's edge.
Inside the park, the ruins of the ancient city of Selge sit on a plateau high above the gorge, yet many visitors who come for the river never make it up there. The site has a theater and temple remains that look out over the surrounding hills.
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